Coast Guard Warnings for July 4th

SEATTLE — The Coast Guard would like to remind recreational boaters of the risks associated with recreating in, on or around cold water this Fourth of July weekend.

Despite warmer air temperatures, Pacific Northwest waters continue to remain in the 50 to 60 degrees Fahrenheit range. To prevent cold water shock or “swim failure” due to cold water immersion, wearing a life jacket increases your chances of surviving in the event of an emergency, vessel capsizing or if knocked unconscious.

The holiday weekend also marks the start of Operation Dry Water, which is a national awareness campaign providing increased law enforcement emphasis on stopping boaters who operate under the influence of alcohol and drugs. During the operation, Coast Guard members and local law enforcement throughout the Pacific Northwest will focus on detecting impaired boaters and educating the public about the dangers of boating under the influence.

READ more at https://www.uscgboating.org/