As Southwest Florida gets ready for the Fourth of July weekend, the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Flotilla 91 has a firm reminder for boaters: distress flares are lifesaving tools, not fireworks.
Firing a distress flare when there is no real emergency is a federal crime. A hoax flare sets off a false Coast Guard search-and-rescue response, and violators face steep penalties. Those include fines up to $250,000, six to 10 years in federal prison, and full restitution for the cost of the operation.
“Every false alarm diverts critical rescue assets away from real emergencies,” says Gary Martell, Flotilla Commander for Flotilla 91. “We want everyone to enjoy the fireworks from the water, but safety must come first.”
The Auxiliary shared a few tips for a safe Fourth on the water:
- Expect congestion. Waterways will be packed, especially right after the finale. Be patient and allow extra travel time.
- Check your gear. Make sure all required safety equipment is on board and your navigation lights work before sunset.
- Designate a sober skipper. If your boat is partying, your captain shouldn’t be. Operating a vessel under the influence is just as dangerous, and just as illegal, as drunk driving.
The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary is the uniformed civilian volunteer arm of the United States Coast Guard. Flotilla 91, based in Fort Myers Beach, has promoted boating safety for more than 20 years through public education, vessel safety checks, and mission support that includes search and rescue and environmental protection. Learn more at http://www.Aux91FMB.org.
Love what you're reading?
Get the best of Fort Myers delivered to your inbox every month — local stories, events, and good news worth sharing.
Subscribe for Free
