Boating Safety: FWC Urges Use of Emergency Beacons
MARCO ISLAND, Fla. — As boating season kicks into high gear, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) emphasizes the critical importance of Emergency Position-Indicating Radio Beacons (EPIRBs) for maritime safety. Capt. Randy Yanez highlighted the unpredictable nature of emergencies on the water, stating, "When your boat is sinking, you don’t know if you’re going to have 10 seconds or 10 minutes."
EPIRBs are portable, battery-operated devices that activate in emergencies, sending out distress signals that are monitored by the international COSPAS-SARSAT satellite system. This network, consisting of 65 satellites and encompassing 45 countries, allows FWC to swiftly locate stranded boaters with an accuracy of about 330 feet—crucial during the "golden day," the first 24 hours following a distress situation when survival chances are highest.
Yanez stressed that having an EPIRB onboard can significantly enhance one’s chances of survival. The devices come in personal and boat-mounted models, some equipped with hydrostatic release features that activate automatically upon submersion.
Officer Morgan Zeleny reiterated the importance of precision in emergency response, noting that factors like current and wind can quickly separate individuals from their vessels. "Giving us the most exact location possible is critical," Zeleny stated.
FWC encourages all boaters to invest in an EPIRB and familiarize themselves with its operation, as it could be a lifesaving decision. As boats hit the water this season, ensuring safety measures like EPIRBs can make all the difference for those navigating Florida’s waterways.
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