Additional resources

Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission www.fish.state.pa.us Boat Registration/Titling 866-BoatReg (262-8734) Boating Safety Education Courses 888-PaFish1(723-4741)

Boating Under the Influence

Operating a boat while under the influence of alcohol is just as dangerous as operating a vehicle, and conviction brings similar penalties. The legal limit for operating a boat under the influence is 0.08 percent blood alcohol concentration; however impairment for some people can start sooner. All boaters should avoid Penalties operating a water vessel while under Since BUI is just the influence. If as serious as DUI, you choose to drink boaters will face on a boat, be sure similar charges to have another if convicted. responsible driver. Offenders may face Never drink on a up to $10,000 in boat alone. Even if fines and up to 5 you are not drinking, years in prison. The every boater should crime will be put be cautious of other operators in the on your permanent water who may be record and a judge under the influence, may require alcohol just as drivers must counseling classes. be cautious on the Many negligent roads. boaters lose their boating privileges just as drivers lose their license.
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Fishing Licenses www.theoutdoorshop.state.pa.us

State Representative

Compliments of

Jesse White

Capitol offiCe: 102B East Wing P.O. Box 202046 Harrisburg, PA 17120-2046 Phone: (717) 783-6437 Fax: (717) 780-4781 DiStRiCt offiCeS: Cecil: 3855 Millers Run Road P.O. Box 285 Cecil, PA 15321 Phone: (724) 746-3677 Fax: (724) 746-3799 Burgettstown: 1425 Burgettstown Plaza #5 Burgettstown, PA 15021 Phone: (724) 947-4422 Fax: (724) 947-5386 Canton Township: 2403 Jefferson Ave. Suite C Washington, PA 15301 Phone: (724) 222-4192 Fax: (724) 222-4194 WeBSite: www.pahouse.com/white

Boating safety information

When the heat of summer arrives,
many people choose to visit local lakes and rivers to spend time boating. However, many people do not realize that boating can hold as many dangers as driving a car, and boaters should remain alert. Regardless of your boating experience, it is important to respect the following:

Safety Tips
Make sure the proper safety equipment is onboard, including life jackets, fire extinguishers, flares, air horns and navigation lights. Make sure there is a responsible person piloting the boat. According to Fish and Boat Commission guidelines, no child under 11 may operate a boat, and all operators born after Jan. 1, 1982, must obtain a Boating Safety Education Certificate. Please visit www.fish.state.pa.us for more information.

Special Regulated Waters

Most counties in Pennsylvania have special regulations and rules that apply to their local waterways. Be sure to read all bulletin boards in your boating areas. For a complete listing of rules visit: www.fish.state.pa.us/spbtregs.htm

Boating Regulations
Speeding
Remember to maintain a slow no-wake speed when departing all docks and shorelines until the boat is 100 feet away. Maintain a reduced speed when other boaters are in the vicinity. Do not cause the boat to become airborne or leave the water completely when crossing a wake.

Skiing
It is illegal to water ski or tube from sunset to sunrise. Also, a boat may not tow any person with a line shorter than 20 feet. Tow ropes must not exceed 80 feet.

Hazards
Be sure to keep an eye out at all times for hazards. Boats should steer clear of dams, strainers and be advised of the changing current. Some think that open waters hold no danger. Beware of submerged objects and cold water!

Life Jackets
There are several types of life jackets: Type I Off-shore; designed to turn an unconscious swimmer face up. Type II Near-shore; designed to turn an unconscious swimmer face up. Type III Flotation aid, not designed to turn an unconscious swimmer face up. Best for water sports. Type IV Throwable devices; meant to be grasped, not worn.

Registry
Be sure that your boat has up-todate registration and the validation decal is visible.

Accidents
All accidents involving death, serious injury or damage exceeding $2,000 must be reported in writing to the Fish and Boat Commission.