Take percautions for Christmas boat parades

Ed Killer

BOATING AFTER DARK

Flotilla 59-Stuart of the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary reminds boaters of important safety considerations for upcoming Christmas Boat Parades on Saturday in Martin County and a week from Saturday in St. Lucie and Indian River counties.

As the first major evening marine event in months, many boaters will be operating in unfamiliar conditions — in a new parade location in Stuart, in very narrow channels and in close quarters with other vessels. The following are offered as important considerations:

• Observe signs and advice from the Coast Guard Auxiliary and law enforcement vessels.

• Be careful with one's wake and its effect on vessels nearby.

• Check navigation lights to make sure they are working. Remember, red/green/white (full navigation lights) when under way, one all-around light when at anchor.

• Check other safety equipment, especially life jackets, and have one of the right size for every occupant of vessel.

• Do not anchor in the channel or within the safety zone for the fireworks barge.

The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary and U.S. Power Squadrons on the Treasure Coast provide free vessel safety checks and monthly safe boating courses. To learn about the Power Squadrons between Sebastian and Key West, visit www.uspsd8.com. For information on these organizations, call (772) 221-4201 or e-mail Ed Killer at This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it .