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US Coast Guard Boating Safety Web Site
  
News Release
RI Department of Environmental Management
235 Promenade St., Providence, RI 02908
(401) 222-2771 TDD/(401) 222-4462
For Release: August 10, 2001
Contact: Gail Mastrati 222-4700 ext. 2402
Stephanie Powell 222-4700 ext. 4418

DEM ISSUES SAFETY REMINDER TO BOATERS; NOTES PASSAGE OF NEW SAFE BOATING LAWS

PROVIDENCE - The Department of Environmental Management is reminding boaters that the General Assembly this year passed legislation lowering the blood alcohol level for boating while intoxicated from .10 to .08. The legislation, which took effect upon passage, sets limits and penalties similar to the driving while intoxicated standards and requires the same levels of testing.

"Boating while drinking is a real and dangerous problem," said Steven Hall, Chief of DEM's Office of Law Enforcement. "This summer we have issued an increased number of boating while intoxicated citations. And, several recent boating accidents have been attributed to the misuse of alcohol by boaters." Nationally, Hall added, about 30 percent of boating accidents are alcohol-related.

"Rhode Island is a wonderful place to boat," Hall said. "Whether you are out on Narragansett Bay or exploring one of our many lakes or salt ponds, you have almost limitless opportunities to enjoy your surroundings. But, with more than 40,000 Rhode Island-registered boats in the water, along with another 30,000 or so visiting boats, you also have the duty to be responsible, for yourself and for others."

The General Assembly took other action this year to increase boating safety. Legislation was approved requiring those born after January 1, 1986 who operate a boat with a motor greater than 10 horsepower to complete a boating safety course approved by DEM. The legislation also requires that, regardless of age, all operators of personal watercraft must show proof that they have completed a safe boating course. That legislation takes effect on January 1, 2002.

Boating safety courses will be available from many sources, such as the Community College of Rhode Island, the Coast Guard Auxiliary and the US Power Squadrons. DEM is working with CCRI to increase the number of courses available and is working with Boat US on offering an online boating safety course so that boaters will have sufficient opportunity to comply with the new law.

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