The dark side of East Coast waters, popular among the rich and famous, is unveiled by harbor patrol.
Authorities on Long Island, New York, advise recreational boaters to enhance their water safety knowledge and refrain from operating boats while intoxicated.
Authorities say that the greatest dangers for recreational boaters are intoxicated driving, lack of experience, and mistakes made by operators.
Earlier this month, the Suffolk County Sheriff's Office in New York invited Planet Chronicle Digital to join its harbor patrol unit on a ride in the waters off the Hamptons.
No arrests, no emergencies, and no drownings occurred on the water that day.
"Sgt. Michael Letscher, a 24-year veteran of the sheriff's office, stated that the biggest misconception about their office is that they are not out to ruin a good time. Nearly half of their work is on the water, and their primary goal is to ensure everyone's safety while operating a boat. They want to make sure everyone has their safety equipment and that their day is not ruined. Their ultimate aim is to ensure everyone has a great day by getting home safely."
Letscher's team was ready for boardings and other enforcement actions, which he claims are intended to enhance safety, not disrupt anyone's day.
Some of the worst-case scenarios that could occur may necessitate emergency rescue operations. Letscher, who has been with the marine patrol for 10 years, has witnessed several tragic incidents, including a fatal plane crash and child drownings.
The biggest danger in boating while intoxicated is unfamiliarity with sea conditions and inexperience on the water and navigating channels, according to authorities.
""Roads and waterways differ in that roads are more restricted, with clear lines on the road, while waterways have buoys to navigate, and unfamiliarity with waterways can make them more dangerous, especially for those coming from the west to the East End," Letcher stated."
The sheriff's office aids in the assistance of foreign boats that enter Hamptons waters, as stated by Letscher.
"Large yachts operated by captains are arriving from the Bahamas. These boats require a cruising permit to enter New York waters. The New York vector and the sheriff's office will verify the permit, working together with Customs Border Protection agents."
Last year, the USCG reported that alcohol was the leading cause of boating fatalities, resulting in 79 deaths and 17% of all boating fatalities. Other significant factors contributing to accidents included inexperience, inattention, and equipment failures.
The number of boating deaths decreased by more than 11% in 2022 compared to the previous year.
According to USCG statistics, 75% of recreational boating fatalities occurred due to an inexperienced boater safety operator.
Letscher stated that while anyone can purchase a boat, it is not always the case that they will take the safety course to improve their boating skills.
Drowning accounted for three-quarters of all recreational boating deaths, and 87% of the victims didn't wear life jackets.
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