Boating safety is always a concern in Alabama’s coastal waters. This year, extra caution is needed after our stormy fall.
When Hurricane Sally hit our coast September 16, 2020, she displaced more than 1000 vessels, with almost 500 of those in Alabama. Most of those vessels have been recovered, but some are still under water in canals and bays, and also around marinas. Add in debris from homes, boat docks, boat houses and vegetation and you have water hazards that may not be visible on the water’s surface.
Safety is also a concern for the coastal environment. Are you eco-friendly when boating? Below, we offer a few tips to keep in mind while having fun on the water.
- Use care when fueling your vessel. An accidental spill can pollute the water.
- Properly dispose of your waste and recycle what you can. Make sure what you carry out comes back to shore with you.
- Use non-toxic cleaning products on your vessel.
- Choose an eco-friendly sunscreen. Some sunscreens have chemicals that can harm marine wildlife when it washes off in the water. Do a little research so you can protect the environment as well as yourself.
Enjoy time on the water and please also take care of the environment. Remember to follow the Coast Guard Boating Safety Guide and be extra vigilant when traveling near shorelines.