In light of South Florida reopening, more boats have been out on the water. Unfortunately, this typically leads to a rise in boating accidents. With the 4th of July right around the corner, the Broward Sheriff’s Office Marine Patrol is sounding the maritime alarm with a two-week operation that began on Monday. BSO Marine Patrol units are out on the Intracoastal Waterway, and their goal is to educate boaters about boating safety.
For the first week of the patrol, education and enforcement will be top priority. The second phase of the operation will include increased enforcement. In addition, marine patrols from Fort Lauderdale, Lighthouse Point, and Hillsborough Beach will be checking for life jackets, fire extinguishers, and other safety items. Tickets will be issued for speeding boats or those violating no-wake zones.
Broward County is ranked 11th in vessel accidents in Florida, and they want to do better. Boaters are encouraged to take boating safety courses, which are offered by the U.S. Coast Guard, the Coast Guard Reserve, and the Florida Wildlife Conservation Commission.