Summer time, for many Wyomingites, means fun at the lakes, streams and in the water with their boats and watercraft's. However, The Wyoming Game & Fish Department is wanting you to think about safety before you hitch up "Ole Bessy" and take her out to the lake.

A great day on the lake in your boat can be a great experience and time well spent with the family. However, none of us wants to have the fun turned into a day of tragedy because we didn't take into consideration some safety factors that can be translated into safety regulations for those boating in Wyoming.

  • Each passenger on a boat must be provided a PFD - Personal Flotation Device, or a Life Jacket. It must properly fit the body and be approved by the U.S. Coast Guard.
  • All watercraft that is 16' and longer, must carry a Coast Guard approved Type VI flotation device that can be thrown. Although not required on boats less than 16', it's still a good idea to have one on board.
  • Wyoming Watercraft Regulations depends on boat size, however sound producing devices are required on all boats and fire extinguisher's are required on some boats.
  • Don't mix alcohol and boating. Many have lost their lives because of drinking and boating. Law enforcement is always on the look out for those drinking and driving a water vessel.
  • Lastly, make sure you check you boat registration and ensure you have a AIS (Aquatic Invasive Species) decal on your boat. All watercraft, motorized and non-motorized, must display the decal on their boat, kayak and sailboats.

I enjoy boating just as much as the next guy. I especially enjoy going to Granite and Crystal Lake here in Wyoming, but we all need to work together when it comes to boat safety.

For more details about rules, regulations, requirements and laws regarding boating in Wyoming, call Bud Stewart at 307-672-7418. When in doubt, check it out.

 

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