10 Tips for Safe Boating this July Fourth Weekend.

CHICAGO -- The Independence Day weekend is traditionally one of the busiest times of the season on the water for recreational boaters. So whether you're the captain of your own boat or a passenger on another's boat, DiscoverBoating.com offers these 10 tips to help ensure a safe and happy outing this weekend.

DiscoverBoating.com Safety Tips:

    1.  Always wear a properly fitted life jacket while in or around
        water.
    2.  Check that the onboard radio is in good working condition.
    3.  Never operate a boat while - or after - consuming alcoholic
        beverages.
    4.  Make sure there's a first aid kit on board and that it is
        stocked and up-to-date.
    5.  Never leave a child unattended or allow a child to operate a
        vessel.
    6.  Check the marine weather forecast, and leave a float plan with
        a friend.

The following tips relate to Carbon Monoxide, a potentially deadly gas
 produced anytime a carbon-based fuel, such as gasoline, burns. Carbon
Monoxide sources on your boat include gasoline engines and generators,
           cooking ranges, space heaters and water heaters.

    7.  Never swim or sit near the swim platform when the boat's
        engine is running.
    8.  Don't hold on to the swim platform while the boat is underway
        (no "teak surfing").
    9.  Always shut off engine and generator when moored, anchored or
        standing still, and never moor next to another boat whose
        engine is running.
    10. Be aware that the station wagon effect, or backdrafting, can
        cause carbon monoxide to accumulate inside the cabin, cockpit
        and bridge when the boat is underway, moving at a slow speed
        or idling.

For more information on safe boating or available boating safety courses and resources, visit www.discoverboating.com/safety