Coast Guard: Be Safe on the Water for Memorial Day

JACKSONVILLE, FL -- The U.S. Coast Guard wants to remind everyone on the water to be safe this holiday weekend.

In recent weeks, there have been several boat crashes in the area, most notably on Easter Sunday where five people died on the intracoastal.

Also, this week's nor'easter has created the potential for dangerous rip currents and unpredictable water conditions.

Boaters need to prepare accordingly.

The Coast Guard says more than 700 people die each year in recreational boating accidents, and many more are injured.

Here are five tips the Coast Guard says will help you stay safe:

1) Always wear a life jacket. About 90% of boat accident drownings are people who aren't in life jackets.

2) Don't drink and boat.

3) Take a safety course. About 70% of fatal crashes involve boaters with no formal training.

4) Get your vessel inspected. The Coast Guard offers free safety inspections.

5) File a plan. It's just to let someone know what vessel you'll be in, where you're going and when you will be back. That can help the Coast Guard find you if something goes wrong.

The Coast Guard says when you're on the water, you're in charge, and safe boating saves lives.

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