Boat Navigation Lights

The Florida is the ideal place to go out on the water with family and friends, but a boating accident could not only ruin the day, it could cost lives.

Fish and Wildlife Commission of Florida (FWC) are encouraging all year round safe and here are some reminders.

- Drinking and boating do not mix, and now you can be arrested for navigation under the influence (BUI)

- Do not overload your boat with too many people and equipment, most boats are marked by the maximum weight capacity

- Get the weather forecast, and remember that afternoon thunderstorms are a daily reality in Florida

- Learn more about navigational markers, get a map and GPS

- Propeller safety awareness among children and adults to beware of propellers and always turn off the engine when retrieving a skier or tube riders

- Always wear a personal flotation device, Type III PFDs are comfortable enough to wear when you're on the water

- Have your boat inspected pre-trip, salty air corrodes wiring and there's nothing worse than watching a huge thunderstorm and your boat will not start. Also, check your navigation lighting, the FWC now your ticket to the lights not working, even during the day.

- Take a Boating Course, even if you're an experienced boater, we are never to old to learn something new

Safety Equipment Requirements (Regulations verify your particular vessel)

Personal Flotation Devices: An approved type I, II or III for each person on board or being towed on water skis, etc. In addition, a device type IV launch

Extinguisher: Must be USCG approved, must be good working condition

Visual Distress Signal: Required on the high seas and coastal waters only

Its production device: Any vessel under 12 meters (39.4 feet) in length must wear a device for producing efficient sound

For a boating safety course, visit the Coast Guard Auxiliary U.S. Coast Guard or U.S. Power Squadron.

Florida Marine Industry

In Florida, navigation and maritime industries are an important part of the economy. Not only are boats used by recreational boaters, large vessels are also used by commercial fishermen, tour operators and transportation industries such as transportation and cruise lines. Watercraft are also used by law enforcement, search / rescue and homeland security.

The marine industry also provides many jobs in Florida. In fact, many Florida cities are famous for their yacht construction. Stuart, north of the Palm Beaches is known for sport fishing yachts. Miami and Fort Lauderdale are also known for Mega Yachts and their annual boat shows.

Current international economic conditions and the high prices of energy have carried Florida in the maritime industry. Recreational boating has been hardest hit, with layoffs at many builders of fishing boats as well as specialized boats for skiing and wakeboarding. Other boats such as family runabouts, pontoons and other small vessels were affected. The highest sales were actually large yachts and sport fishermen.

The Florida marine industry is very active in promoting boating safety to the public. Many are involved in boating safety programs, education and training.