Hitting the water this holiday weekend? Here are safe boating week reminders
Even though the extended forecast predicts a high chance of showers and storms for the holiday weekend, South Florida knows better than to completely write off a chance on the water.
With Memorial Day coming up and National Safe Boating Week ongoing, the Pembroke Pines Fire Department took to social media to share safety reminders ahead of the festivities.
National Safe Boating Week started on Saturday, May 16, and runs through Friday, May 22.
The observance week is an annual effort with the United States Coast Guard aimed at raising global awareness and encouraging boaters to practice safe and responsible habits on the water.
According to a report from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, boating accidents increased in 2025 compared with the previous year.
The state recorded 694 reportable incidents in 2025, nine more than in 2024. Florida had 1,027,742 registered vessels in 2025, according to the report.
The report also found the state led the nation in boating-related fatalities with 51 in 2025. That includes three missing people whose disappearances were associated with boating accidents.
Here’s how officials say you can keep yourself and your family safe on the water:
- Always wear a life jacket.
- Check boating equipment; local U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary or U.S. Power Squadrons provide free vessel safety checks.
- Remain aware of weather and water conditions.
- Never operate a boat under the influence.
- Stay alert on crowded waters.
The National Safe Boating Campaign is led by the National Safe Boating Council, which promotes recreational boating safety through education and outreach initiatives from advocates around the world.
The council also recommends:
- Take a boating safety course.
- Make a float plan; before leaving the dock, always let someone on shore know the trip itinerary, including operator and passenger information, boat type and registration and the communication equipment onboard.
- Use an engine cut-off switch — it’s the law. The device can stop a powerboat engine if the operator unexpectedly falls overboard.
- Know where you’re going and travel at safe speeds.
- Keep in touch: Have more than one communication device that works when wet.
