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Transcript for Legal Requirements

Rob: So, paddling makes you feel so free.

[people yelling excitedly while paddling]

Rob: But you have to make sure you’re behaving responsibly with that freedom, especially when it comes to alcohol and drugs.

Alcohol and drugs affect balance, vision, coordination, judgment, and reaction time. A perfect recipe for capsizing a boat. They’re major contributors to boating accidents and death.

Operating a boat while intoxicated is a state and federal offense, and can lead to jail time and big fines. It’s just not worth it. Know your state’s laws, and remember that the safest thing to do is to enjoy a beverage when you’re back on dry land.

Next, before you launch your boat, be sure to check the local boat registration laws. You may need one.

Haley: And now for something that’s going to save your life over and over again—wearing your life jacket.

I’m going to say it early. I’m going to say it often. Wear your life jacket.

Wear it. Wear it. Wear it. Wear it.

In recent years, more than 80% of boaters who drowned weren’t wearing a life jacket or PFD. Things can change fast out there, so the smartest thing to do is to wear a PFD at all times.

When you’re doing paddlesports, your life jacket will look like this. There’s a lot of variety, but the most important thing?

Rob: Just wear the life jacket.

Haley: The same goes for leashes if you’re using them for stand-up paddleboards. Just make sure you know when to use different ones. Like you’d never use ankle leashes in white-water.

Rob: For added safety out there, bring a white light, whistle or horn, and a visual distress signal.

Haley: All right! See you out there!

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