RALEIGH, N.C. (May 17) – Wearing a life vest while boating can be a lifesaver – and it’s a must for kids younger than 13 in North Carolina.



That will be the message from wildlife officers with the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission during National Safe Boating Week, May 22 through May 28.



Wildlife officers are charged with enforcing the boating laws and regulations on the public waters of the state, and routinely stop vessels for safety checks or violations. The aim of this enforcement is always safety.



North Carolina law requires children younger than 13 to wear an appropriate, U.S. Coast Guard approved life vest whenever they are on a recreational vessel that is underway. Both state and federal regulations require that a Type I, II or III personal flotation device in good condition and of appropriate size be accessible for each person onboard a recreational vessel, including canoes, kayaks, rowboats and other non-motorized craft. Sailboards, racing shells, rowing sculls, racing canoes and racing kayaks are exempt from requirements.



“We ask boaters to be prepared before they get on the water,” said Capt. Chris Huebner, the state boating safety coordinator. “And to be cautious, courteous and alert once they are afloat.”



During National Safe Boating Week, wildlife officers also will remind vessel operators that they now need to be in compliance with General Statute 75A-16.2, the Boating Safety Education Law. As of May 1, 2010, the law requires anyone younger than 26 operating a vessel powered by a 10 horsepower or greater motor to have successfully completed an approved boating safety education course or otherwise be in compliance. When stopped by a law enforcement officer, a vessel operator must present a certification card or proof of compliance, along with a valid ID.



The N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission administers free boating safety education courses that, upon successful completion, satisfy the requirements of the new law. The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, U.S. Power Squadron and other organizations, including online providers, offer approved boating safety education courses that can include a fee.



For more information on the Boating Safety Education Law or to enroll in a free course by the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission, go to www.ncwildlife.org or call (919) 707-0030.



About N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission

Since 1947, the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission has been dedicated to the conservation and sustainability of the state's fish and wildlife resources through research, scientific management, wise use, and public input. The Commission is the state regulatory agency responsible for the enforcement of fishing, hunting, trapping and boating laws and provides programs and opportunities for wildlife-related educational, recreational and sporting activities. To learn more, visit www.ncwildlife.org.



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