​HARRISBURG, PA (May 17) – The Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission (PFBC) is proud to join with the National Safe Boating Council and other boating safety advocates across the country to celebrate National Safe Boating Week from May 18-24, 2024!

“All across Pennsylvania, excitement is building for the unofficial start to the summer boating season, which happens this upcoming Memorial Day holiday weekend,” said Paul Littman, Director of the PFBC Bureau of Boating.  “Whether you plan to go paddling, waterskiing, fishing, or just relaxing on a pontoon boat, National Safe Boating Week is a reminder that every boating adventure should begin with a few safety steps to keep you out of trouble so you can focus on having fun.”

Boaters are encouraged to follow a checklist of basic safety guidelines before and during each boating adventure, including:

• Always wear a life jacket
• Never boat while impaired by alcohol or drugs
• Have a float plan to let someone know when and where you will be boating
• Check the weather forecast for storms and high water conditions
• Take a boating safety course
• Have proper registrations or launch permits for your boat

As a reminder, the legal limit for operating any watercraft in Pennsylvania is .08% blood alcohol concentration, and penalties for boating under the influence are similar to those for driving a motor vehicle while impaired.  PFBC Waterways Conservation Officers will be on patrol throughout the boating season looking for impaired boaters.

For more information on safe boating, to take a safe boating course, and to purchase launch permits, boat registration renewals, and fishing licenses, visit Fishandboat.com.