Do not mix alcohol and boating. About 50 percent of fatal boating accidents involved alcohol use by the boat operator or passengers. Delaware statistics show 19 boating accidents reported as of this date and 22 reported as of the same date in 1999. Out of those reported to date, there have been nine collisions, three capsizings, one swamping, two wake injuries, one due to improper lookout, one hit and run, one falling overboard, and one explosion. Also, out of the 19 accidents reported, three are personal watercraft, two privately owned and one rental.
Boaters can use a navigational chart to assess their location while underway.
Keeping a good lookout and knowing the area and where you are at all times will usually prevent an accident. Operating a boat or personal watercraft is no different that operating a motor vehicle. Don't count on other boat operators to be aware you are there or that he or she will adhere to the rules of the road. Delaware registers 45,854 recreational vessels per year. Boating is a fun recreational sport but can become deadly in a manner of seconds.