Boating Safety Message for a Safe July 4th Holiday Weekend

The Fourth of July weekend is a great time to spend on Missouri’s waterways and it’s usually the busiest holiday on the water.  The chance to view fireworks from the water also makes this weekend the busiest for nighttime boating.  But nighttime navigation has more safety issues which boaters need to consider.  While there is less traffic, and therefore fewer accidents at night, the accidents that do occur tend to lead to more serious injuries due to operating speeds and limited visibility. 

Before heading out after dark, boaters need to make sure the vessel navigation lighting is in good working order and that they have spare light bulbs on board.  The navigation lights on boats, unlike automobile headlights, are there so other boaters can spot your boat, rather than to show you where you’re going.  A spot light can be used to help operators see where they are going, but it may not be shined continuously.

Missouri’s nighttime speed limit on the water is 30 miles per hour.  This is in effect from one half hour after sunset to one hour before sunrise.  Operating at high speed at night leaves a boater little or no reaction time in an emergency situation.  Slowing down and keeping a sharp look out for other boats or obstructions in the water can greatly reduce the chances of being involved in a serious accident after dark. 

Shooting fireworks from a boat or at another boat is unsafe and illegal.  Exposed fuel tanks and gasoline fumes make boats and fireworks a dangerous combination. 

As with all summer holidays, the Water Patrol expects heavier boat traffic on Missouri’s rivers and lakes. 

All available uniformed officers will be working extended shifts over the holiday weekend.  The Water Patrol asks boaters to be patient and keep a sharp lookout.  Boat smart and enjoy the Fourth of July.