The ice in Sturgeon Bay
has all but left the waterways and the boating season is just around the
corner.
The Sturgeon Bay Police
Department wants to wish everyone a SAFE and happy boating season. A few things to keep in mind before the
season gets underway.
In years past damage to
property and injuries has been the result of irresponsible, uneducated and or
inattentive boating in the jurisdictional waters of the City of Sturgeon
Bay. The Sturgeon Bay Police Department
wants to remind everyone that wake violations are vigorously enforced for the
safety of citizen’s and the protection of property along the waterway. YOU ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR YOUR WAKE!
Life jackets and proper
safety equipment are required by law. Boaters
are encouraged to spend a few minutes familiarizing and or re-familiarizing themselves
with the City Boating Ordinances’, Wisconsin State Boating Laws and Federal
Boating Laws so as to have a safe and enjoyable boating experience. LIFE JACKETS, LIFE JACKETS, LIFE JACKETS!!!!
Water levels are
constantly changing. For this reason it
is recommended boaters pay special attention to bridge opening times and bridge
clearance heights. Just because ones
boat passed safely under the bridges in years past, does not guarantee current
needed clearance as water levels fluctuate.
Rising water levels coupled with boat weight changes and surface water
conditions can affect boat clearance and affect safe passage under the bridges.
Weather conditions can
change rapidly and have an effect on safe boating, even when boating close to
shore. Monitor the weather conditions
and be prepared for sudden changes in temperature. Hot days and cooler water temperatures, even
in summer, can cause heat related injuries as well as hypothermia. An off shore wind can make paddling back to
shore difficult if not impossible.
Don’t Drink and Boat
It is illegal for a
person to operate a motorboat if they are under the influence of an intoxicant
or a controlled substance or have a blood alcohol concentration of .08 % or
greater.
Below is a list of
useful web resources for additional information.
Get out and safely enjoy the renowned
fishing and boating waters of beautiful Sturgeon Bay. See ya out there!!!!!
