Enjoy The Great Dock Canoe Race Safely

The Great Dock Canoe Race is one of Collier County’s most popular traditions, and the Collier County Sheriff’s Office wants you to enjoy it safely.

Race weekend is set for May 7 to May 9.

Boating safety is everyone’s responsibility. CCSO deputies, along with city, state and federal law enforcement officers, will remove dangerous and impaired boaters from the waterways during race weekend.

Boating under the influence of alcohol is dangerous. Statistics show that a significant number of boating deaths are alcohol related. Penalties for BUI can include jail, civil fines, criminal fines, and vessel impoundment. Sun, wind, noise, and motion can intensify the effects of alcohol, drugs and some medications. These factors can severely affect reaction times and lead to a boating accident.

CCSO’s goal is to protect you while reducing the number of alcohol-related accidents on our waterways. Remember to drink responsibility and have a designated driver.

CCSO also offers these safety reminders:

* Excessive rafting to anchored vessels which unreasonably or unnecessarily causes a navigational hazard to other vessels is unlawful.

* Life jackets save lives. It’s not enough to carry life jackets; they should be worn at all times. Children younger than 6 must wear a life jacket at all times aboard a vessel.