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What Are the 10 Most Common Types of Boating Accidents? 🚤
As the sun glistens on the water and the wind fills your sails, the thrill of boating beckons. But did you know that nearly 4,000 boating accidents occur each year in the United States alone? That’s a staggering statistic that highlights the importance of understanding the risks involved in this beloved pastime. Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or a weekend warrior, knowing the most common types of boating accidents can help you navigate the waters safely and confidently.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive deep into the ten most frequent boating mishaps, from collisions with other vessels to the unexpected dangers of capsizing. We’ll explore the causes, prevention strategies, and essential safety tips to keep you and your loved ones safe on the water. So, grab your life jacket and let’s embark on this journey to boating safety!
Key Takeaways
- Awareness is Key: Understanding the types of boating accidents can significantly reduce your risk.
- Safety First: Always wear a life jacket and ensure your boat is equipped with essential safety gear.
- Stay Educated: Taking a boating safety course can enhance your skills and knowledge.
- Weather Matters: Always check the weather forecast before heading out to avoid dangerous conditions.
- Be Responsible: Avoid distractions and never operate a boat under the influence of alcohol.
Ready to gear up for your next adventure? Check out our recommended safety gear:
- Life Jackets: Shop Life Jackets
- Boating Safety Courses: Find a Course
- Fishing Gear: Explore Fishing Gear
Let’s dive into the details and ensure your next boating experience is both thrilling and safe!
Table of Contents
Quick Tips and Facts
Understanding Boating Accidents: A Historical Perspective
1. Collision with Other Vessels: The Most Common Boating Mishap
2. Flooding and Swamping: When Things Go Wrong
3. Collision with Fixed Objects: Hidden Dangers
4. Grounding: Getting Stuck in Shallow Waters
5. Falling Overboard: The Unexpected Splash
6. Capsizing: Turning the Boat Upside Down
How Were the Vessels Engaged at the Time of the Accident?
What Caused These Accidents? A Deep Dive into Contributing Factors
Boating Safety Tips: How to Avoid Common Accidents
Fishing Season: When Does It Open?
What Tide is Best for Fishing? Timing Your Catch
The Importance of Boating Education and Training
Conclusion
Recommended Links
FAQ
Reference Links
Quick Tips and Facts
✅ Always wear a life jacket. It’s the most important safety device on a boat. According to Boat-Ed.com, “90% of those who drown while boating were not wearing a lifejacket or PFD even though there were enough lifejackets and PFDs on the pleasure craft.”
✅ Be aware of your surroundings. Use your eyes and ears to be aware of other boats, swimmers, and potential hazards.
✅ Operate at a safe speed. This is especially important in crowded areas or when visibility is limited.
✅ Don’t drink and boat. Alcohol and drugs impair your judgment and reaction time.
✅ Take a boating safety course. It’s a great way to learn the rules of the water and how to operate a boat safely.
Want to learn more about boat statistics? Check out our related article on boat statistics.
Understanding Boating Accidents: A Historical Perspective
Boating, with its allure of freedom and adventure, has been an integral part of human history for millennia. From the earliest dugout canoes to modern marvels of engineering, boats have connected civilizations, facilitated trade, and provided endless recreational opportunities. However, the vast and often unpredictable nature of water has also posed inherent risks.
Throughout history, boating accidents have resulted from a complex interplay of factors, including:
- Environmental Conditions: Storms, fog, and treacherous currents have challenged even the most experienced mariners.
- Human Error: Navigation mistakes, miscommunication, and recklessness have contributed to countless incidents.
- Vessel Design and Maintenance: From inadequate construction to neglected upkeep, the condition of a boat has always played a crucial role in its seaworthiness.
As technology advanced and recreational boating surged in popularity, the nature of accidents evolved. While shipwrecks on rocky shores and collisions in dense fog remained a concern, new patterns emerged. The rise of smaller, faster boats, coupled with increased traffic on waterways, led to a surge in collisions, groundings, and falls overboard.
1. Collision with Other Vessels: The Most Common Boating Mishap 💥
Picture this: you’re cruising along on a sunny afternoon, the wind in your hair, when suddenly, another boat appears seemingly out of nowhere. Collisions, while often avoidable, are the most frequent type of boating accident. They can range from minor scrapes to catastrophic events, often resulting from:
Operator Inattention: The Distracted Captain 📵
In our fast-paced world, distractions are abundant, even on the water. A moment’s inattention to surroundings, whether checking a phone, adjusting fishing gear, or simply daydreaming, can have dire consequences.
Speeding: The Need for Speed…and Caution 🚤
The thrill of zipping across the water can be exhilarating, but excessive speed reduces reaction time and increases the severity of an impact.
Failure to Follow Navigation Rules: The Right of Way Conundrum 🚦
Just like roads, waterways have rules (known as the Navigation Rules) to prevent collisions. Not understanding or adhering to these rules, such as maintaining a proper lookout or understanding right-of-way, is a recipe for disaster.
2. Flooding and Swamping: When Things Go Wrong 🌊
Imagine this: you’re enjoying a peaceful day on the water when you notice the floor of your boat becoming unnervingly damp. Flooding or swamping occurs when water enters a boat faster than it can be removed, potentially leading to sinking. Common culprits include:
Hull Damage: The Unseen Breach 💥
A hole in the hull, whether from striking an object or gradual wear and tear, can allow water to seep in unnoticed until it’s too late.
Loose Seacocks: The Importance of Tight Seals 🚰
Seacocks are valves that allow water to flow in and out of a boat for various purposes. A loose or malfunctioning seacock can result in uncontrolled flooding.
Overloading: Too Much of a Good Thing 📦
Every boat has a weight limit. Exceeding this limit, especially with passengers or gear unevenly distributed, can make a boat unstable and prone to swamping.
3. Collision with Fixed Objects: Hidden Dangers 🚫
You’re navigating a narrow channel, focused on staying within the markers, when suddenly, you hear a sickening crunch. Collisions with fixed objects, such as:
- Docks and Piers
- Buoys and Markers
- Submerged Rocks and Reefs
…can cause significant damage to a boat and injuries to passengers. These accidents often occur due to:
Limited Visibility: Navigating the Unknown 🌫️
Fog, darkness, or even glare on the water can obscure hazards, making it crucial to reduce speed and proceed with caution.
Unfamiliarity with Surroundings: Charting a Safe Course 🗺️
Venturing into unfamiliar waters without consulting charts or navigational aids can lead to unpleasant surprises.
Distractions and Inexperience: Staying Focused at the Helm 🧭
As with collisions with other vessels, distractions and inexperience can result in misjudgments and accidents.
4. Grounding: Getting Stuck in Shallow Waters 🏝️
You’re cruising along, enjoying the scenery, when suddenly, your boat lurches to a halt, firmly embedded in sand or mud. Grounding, while often less serious than other accidents, can still be inconvenient, damage your boat, and even be dangerous in certain situations. Common causes include:
Navigational Errors: Misreading the Charts 🧭
Misinterpreting charts, relying on outdated information, or failing to account for tides can lead to unexpected shallows.
Distractions and Carelessness: Enjoying the View a Little Too Much 🍹
Sometimes, simply not paying attention to surroundings or assuming a channel is deeper than it is can result in an unwelcome grounding.
Mechanical Failures: When the Engine Quits 🛠️
A sudden engine failure or steering malfunction can leave a boater stranded and vulnerable to drifting aground.
5. Falling Overboard: The Unexpected Splash 💦
Imagine this: you’re reeling in a fish, caught up in the excitement of the moment, when suddenly, you lose your balance and find yourself submerged in the water. Falling overboard is a serious boating accident, often leading to:
Drowning: The Silent Killer 🌊
Even in calm waters, falling overboard without a life jacket can be fatal, especially if the person is injured, unconscious, or unable to swim.
Hypothermia: The Chilling Reality 🥶
Cold water can quickly sap body heat, leading to hypothermia and potentially death, even if the person is rescued.
Collisions with the Boat or Propeller: A Recipe for Disaster 🤕
A person who has fallen overboard is at risk of being struck by the boat or its propeller, causing severe injuries.
6. Capsizing: Turning the Boat Upside Down 😵
You’re battling rough seas, the waves crashing over the bow, when suddenly, your boat tips over, tossing you and your passengers into the water. Capsizing, while less common than other accidents, is often the most terrifying and dangerous. It can occur due to:
Severe Weather Conditions: The Wrath of Nature ⛈️
High winds, large waves, and strong currents can overwhelm even experienced boaters and capsize vessels.
Overloading or Improper Weight Distribution: Finding the Center of Gravity ⚖️
Exceeding a boat’s weight limit or distributing weight unevenly can make it unstable and prone to capsizing, especially in rough conditions.
Unsafe Maneuvers: Taking Turns Too Sharply ↩️
Making sudden, sharp turns at high speed can shift weight and cause a boat to capsize.
How Were the Vessels Engaged at the Time of the Accident?
Understanding the activities vessels were engaged in at the time of accidents provides valuable insights into common risk factors. According to Deckee, the top five vessel operations during accidents are:
- Cruising: Maintaining a proper lookout and being aware of surroundings is crucial, even when seemingly just enjoying a leisurely cruise.
- Changing Direction: Sudden or improper turns can lead to collisions or capsizing, especially if other vessels are nearby.
- Changing Speed: Rapid acceleration or deceleration can impact stability and increase the risk of collisions or falls overboard.
- Tied to Dock or Moored: While seemingly secure, accidents can still occur while docked or moored, such as falls from the boat or collisions with the dock.
- Drifting: Drifting without proper anchoring or attention to currents can lead to groundings or collisions with other vessels or objects.
What Caused These Accidents? A Deep Dive into Contributing Factors 🕵️♀️
While the types of boating accidents vary, certain contributing factors emerge as recurring themes:
1. Operator Inattention: The Multitasking Myth 📵
In today’s hyper-connected world, distractions are abundant, even on the water. Checking phones, adjusting equipment, or simply not paying attention to surroundings can have dire consequences.
2. Operator Inexperience: Learning the Ropes 🎓
Operating a boat safely requires knowledge, skill, and experience. Inexperienced boaters may not understand navigation rules, react appropriately to changing conditions, or handle emergencies effectively.
3. Improper Lookout: Eyes on the Water 🔭
Maintaining a proper lookout involves constantly scanning the surroundings for other vessels, hazards, and changes in conditions. Failure to do so can lead to collisions, groundings, or other accidents.
4. Excessive Speed: The Need for Speed…and Caution 💨
Speeding reduces reaction time, increases the severity of impacts, and can make a boat more difficult to control, especially in tight spaces or rough waters.
5. Alcohol and Drug Use: Impairment on the Water 🍺
Just like driving a car, operating a boat under the influence of alcohol or drugs is illegal and extremely dangerous. It impairs judgment, slows reaction time, and increases the likelihood of accidents.
6. Mechanical Failure: The Importance of Maintenance 🛠️
Boats, like any machinery, require regular maintenance to operate safely and reliably. Neglecting maintenance can lead to engine failures, steering problems, or other malfunctions that increase the risk of accidents.
Boating Safety Tips: How to Avoid Common Accidents ✅
Now that we’ve explored the common types and causes of boating accidents, let’s shift our focus to prevention. By following these essential safety tips, you can significantly reduce your risk and ensure a safe and enjoyable experience on the water:
1. Wear a Life Jacket: Your Most Important Piece of Gear 🦺
A life jacket is your lifeline in case of an unexpected fall overboard. Make sure everyone on board wears a properly fitted life jacket, especially children, non-swimmers, and anyone on deck while the boat is underway.
2. Take a Boating Safety Course: Knowledge is Power 🎓
Boating safety courses teach essential skills such as navigation rules, boat handling, emergency procedures, and responsible boating practices. Many states require boating education for certain operators, and even if not mandatory, it’s a valuable investment in your safety and the safety of others.
3. Check the Weather Forecast: Be Prepared for Changing Conditions 🌦️
Before heading out, always check the marine weather forecast for your area. Be aware of potential hazards such as thunderstorms, fog, high winds, and rough seas. If conditions deteriorate, seek shelter and wait for them to improve.
4. File a Float Plan: Let Someone Know Your Itinerary 🗺️
Before departing, inform a responsible person on shore of your float plan, including your destination, estimated time of return, and the number of people on board. This information can be invaluable to search and rescue efforts in case of an emergency.
5. Conduct a Pre-Departure Check: Ensure Your Boat is Seaworthy 🛠️
Before casting off, perform a thorough pre-departure check of your boat, including:
- Engine: Check fluid levels, belts, and hoses.
- Navigation Lights: Ensure they are working properly.
- Safety Equipment: Verify you have the required safety gear, including life jackets, flares, fire extinguisher, and sound-producing devices.
- Fuel: Make sure you have enough fuel for your trip, plus a reserve.
- Weather Gear: Be prepared for changing conditions with appropriate clothing and gear.
6. Maintain a Safe Speed: Don’t Let Speed Trump Safety 💨
Operate your boat at a safe speed for the conditions and your surroundings. Reduce speed in congested areas, when visibility is limited, or when navigating unfamiliar waters.
7. Don’t Drink and Boat: Stay Sober at the Helm 🍻
Alcohol and drugs impair judgment, slow reaction time, and increase the risk of accidents. Just like driving a car, operating a boat under the influence is illegal and extremely dangerous. Designate a sober skipper or stay ashore if you plan to consume alcohol.
8. Be Aware of Carbon Monoxide: The Silent Killer ⚠️
Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless, odorless gas that can be deadly. It can accumulate in enclosed spaces on boats, especially near exhaust outlets. Be aware of the symptoms of CO poisoning, such as headache, dizziness, and nausea. Install CO detectors and ensure adequate ventilation.
9. Use Navigation Equipment Wisely: Technology as Your Ally 🧭
Modern boats often come equipped with sophisticated navigation equipment such as GPS, chartplotters, and radar. While these tools can enhance safety, it’s crucial to use them responsibly and not rely on them solely. Maintain situational awareness, consult paper charts, and be prepared to navigate without electronic aids if necessary.
10. Be Respectful of Others: Share the Waterway 🤝
Remember that you share the waterway with other boaters, swimmers, paddlers, and wildlife. Operate your boat in a courteous and responsible manner, respecting the rights of others and following the rules of navigation.
Fishing Season: When Does It Open? 🎣
Ah, fishing season! The time of year when anglers dust off their rods, stock up on bait, and dream of landing the big one. But before you cast your line, it’s essential to know the fishing regulations for your area, including when the season opens and closes for different species.
Fishing seasons are implemented to protect fish populations during critical spawning periods and ensure sustainable fishing for years to come. The specific dates vary depending on the species, location, and type of waterway (freshwater or saltwater).
Where to Find Fishing Regulations:
- State Fish and Wildlife Agencies: Most states have a dedicated agency responsible for managing fish and wildlife resources. Their websites often provide detailed information on fishing regulations, including season dates, catch limits, and licensing requirements.
- Fishing Apps and Websites: Numerous apps and websites, such as Fishbrain, Fishidy, and Take Me Fishing, offer up-to-date fishing regulations, maps, and other helpful resources.
- Local Bait and Tackle Shops: Local bait and tackle shops are great resources for information on fishing regulations, as well as tips on where the fish are biting.
Why Fishing Seasons Matter:
- Protecting Spawning Fish: During spawning season, fish are particularly vulnerable as they congregate in shallow waters to reproduce. Closing fishing during these times allows fish populations to replenish and ensures healthy ecosystems.
- Preventing Overfishing: Fishing seasons help prevent overfishing by limiting the amount of time anglers can target certain species. This ensures that there are enough fish to sustain the population and provide fishing opportunities for future generations.
- Promoting Fair Chase: Fishing seasons promote fair chase by creating a level playing field for all anglers. When everyone is fishing within the same timeframe, it prevents individuals from overharvesting fish before others have a chance.
What Tide is Best for Fishing? Timing Your Catch 🌊
For anglers seeking an edge, understanding the influence of tides can be a game-changer. Tides, the rise and fall of sea levels caused by the gravitational pull of the moon and sun, play a crucial role in fish behavior and feeding patterns.
Incoming Tide: The Dinner Bell Rings 🍽️
As the tide rises, or “comes in,” it brings with it a surge of nutrient-rich water, attracting baitfish and crustaceans, which in turn, attract larger predatory fish. The incoming tide is often considered the best time to fish, as fish are more likely to be actively feeding in the shallows.
Outgoing Tide: Flushing Out the Feast 🧹
As the tide recedes, or “goes out,” it carries baitfish and crustaceans back out to sea, creating a feeding frenzy for fish waiting in deeper channels and drop-offs. While the outgoing tide may not be as productive as the incoming tide, it can still offer excellent fishing opportunities.
Slack Tide: A Time for Patience 😴
Slack tide occurs between the incoming and outgoing tides when there is little to no water movement. During slack tide, fish may be less active and feeding opportunities may be limited. However, it can be a good time to target bottom-dwelling species or to try different fishing techniques.
Factors to Consider:
- Species: Different species of fish have different feeding preferences and may be more active during specific tides. Research the target species to determine the optimal tide for fishing.
- Location: The influence of tides varies depending on the location and type of waterway. In some areas, the difference between high and low tide may be minimal, while in others, it can be dramatic.
- Weather: Weather conditions, such as wind and barometric pressure, can also influence fish behavior and feeding patterns, regardless of the tide.
Tips for Fishing the Tides:
- Consult Tide Charts: Tide charts provide information on high and low tide times for specific locations. Numerous apps and websites offer tide charts, or you can obtain them from local bait and tackle shops or marinas.
- Fish the Edges: During incoming and outgoing tides, focus on fishing the edges of channels, drop-offs, and other areas where water movement is concentrated.
- Adjust Your Retrieval: When fishing during tides, adjust your retrieval speed to match the current. A slower retrieval may be necessary during strong currents, while a faster retrieval may be effective during slack tide.
- Be Patient and Observant: Fish behavior can be unpredictable, so be patient and observant. Pay attention to signs of fish activity, such as baitfish jumping or birds diving, and adjust your fishing techniques accordingly.
The Importance of Boating Education and Training 📚
In the realm of boating, where the allure of adventure intersects with the power of nature, safety should always be paramount. Boating education and training are not merely checkmarks on a to-do list but rather essential investments in your well-being and the well-being of those who share the water with you.
Why Boating Education Matters:
- Knowledge is Power: Boating education equips you with the knowledge and skills necessary to operate a boat safely and responsibly. From understanding navigation rules to handling emergencies, the information you gain can mean the difference between a memorable outing and a preventable tragedy.
- Reduced Risk of Accidents: Studies have shown that boaters who have completed boating safety courses are less likely to be involved in accidents. Education helps instill safe boating practices, promotes responsible decision-making, and enhances situational awareness.
- Compliance with Regulations: Many states require boating education for certain operators, particularly those born after a specific date or operating vessels above a certain size or horsepower. Completing a boating safety course ensures you meet legal requirements and can operate your boat legally.
- Insurance Benefits: Some insurance companies offer discounts on boat insurance premiums for boaters who have completed boating safety courses. This financial incentive recognizes the reduced risk associated with educated boaters.
- Environmental Stewardship: Boating education often includes modules on environmental stewardship, promoting responsible practices that protect our waterways for future generations. From proper waste disposal to respecting wildlife, these lessons foster a sense of conservation among boaters.
Types of Boating Education:
- Online Courses: Online boating safety courses offer flexibility and convenience, allowing you to learn at your own pace from the comfort of your home. These courses typically include interactive modules, videos, and quizzes to reinforce learning.
- Classroom Courses: Classroom courses provide a more traditional learning environment, offering opportunities for in-person instruction, hands-on activities, and interaction with other boaters. These courses are often taught by experienced instructors with a passion for boating safety.
- On-Water Training: On-water training provides practical experience under the guidance of a certified instructor. You’ll have the opportunity to apply what you’ve learned in a real-world setting, practicing boat handling, docking, anchoring, and other essential skills.
Choosing the Right Course:
When selecting a boating education course, consider the following factors:
- Accreditation: Look for courses that are accredited by reputable organizations, such as the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators (NASBLA) or the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary.
- Curriculum: Ensure the course curriculum covers the topics relevant to your boating activities, such as navigation rules, boat handling, emergency procedures, and environmental considerations.
- Instructor Qualifications: Check the qualifications of the instructors, especially for classroom and on-water courses. Look for instructors with extensive boating experience and certifications from reputable organizations.
- Learning Style: Consider your preferred learning style when choosing between online, classroom, or on-water training. Some people learn best in a structured classroom setting, while others prefer the flexibility of online courses or the hands-on nature of on-water training.
Investing in Your Safety:
Boating education and training are not just about acquiring knowledge; they’re about cultivating a safety-conscious mindset that will serve you well throughout your boating journey. By embracing education, you become a more responsible boater, minimizing risks and maximizing enjoyment on the water. Remember, the most rewarding boating experiences are those shared safely with family and friends.
Conclusion
In summary, understanding the most common types of boating accidents is crucial for anyone who enjoys spending time on the water. From collisions with other vessels to capsizing and falling overboard, each type of accident presents unique risks and challenges. By being aware of these dangers and implementing effective safety measures, you can significantly reduce the likelihood of accidents and ensure a safer boating experience.
Key Takeaways:
- Awareness and Education: Knowledge is your best defense against accidents. Taking a boating safety course and staying informed about navigation rules can save lives.
- Safety Equipment: Always wear a life jacket, and ensure your boat is equipped with essential safety gear.
- Environmental Awareness: Pay attention to weather conditions, tides, and your surroundings to avoid accidents.
- Responsible Operation: Avoid distractions, never operate a boat under the influence, and maintain a proper lookout.
By following these guidelines, you can enjoy the thrill of boating while minimizing risks. So, grab your gear, gather your friends, and hit the water with confidence!
Recommended Links
👉 Shop Safety Gear:
- Life Jackets: Amazon | West Marine | Brand Official
- Boating Safety Courses: Boat-Ed | US Coast Guard
- Fishing Gear: Amazon | Bass Pro Shops | Brand Official
Books on Boating Safety:
- The Complete Boating Manual
- Chapman Piloting & Seamanship
- The Boater’s Bible: Everything You Need to Know About Boating
FAQ
What are the main causes of boating accidents on inland waterways?
Common Causes:
- Operator Inattention: Distracted driving is a leading cause of accidents.
- Inexperience: Many accidents occur due to a lack of knowledge about navigation rules and boat handling.
- Alcohol Use: Impairment from alcohol significantly increases accident risk.
- Weather Conditions: Sudden changes in weather can lead to dangerous situations.
How can I minimize the risk of a boating accident while navigating at night?
Tips for Night Navigation:
- Use Proper Lighting: Ensure all navigation lights are functioning and visible.
- Maintain a Slow Speed: Reducing speed allows for better reaction time in low visibility.
- Stay Alert: Keep a vigilant lookout for other vessels and obstacles.
- Use GPS and Charts: Rely on navigation aids to stay on course and avoid hazards.
What safety equipment is required to prevent or respond to common boating accidents?
Essential Safety Gear:
- Life Jackets: One for each person on board.
- Fire Extinguisher: Required on most boats.
- First Aid Kit: For treating minor injuries.
- Flares and Signaling Devices: For emergency signaling.
- Sound-Producing Devices: Such as horns or whistles.
Read more about “What Are Most Deaths in Boating Caused By? 7 Shocking Facts Revealed! 🚤 …”
What are the most common injuries resulting from boating accidents and how can they be prevented?
Common Injuries:
- Drowning: Prevented by wearing life jackets.
- Cuts and Bruises: Often from collisions or falls; wearing appropriate footwear can help.
- Hypothermia: Can occur in cold water; dress appropriately for conditions.
- Head Injuries: Use of safety gear and maintaining balance can minimize risks.
Can I be held liable if I am involved in a boating accident, even if it was not my fault?
Liability Considerations:
Yes, liability can depend on various factors, including:
- Negligence: If you were operating the vessel in a negligent manner, you could be held liable.
- State Laws: Different states have varying laws regarding boating accidents and liability.
- Insurance: Having proper insurance can protect you in case of legal claims.
What are the most important safety measures to take when boating in bad weather conditions?
Safety Measures:
- Avoid Boating in Severe Weather: If possible, stay off the water during storms or high winds.
- Check Weather Forecasts: Always check the forecast before heading out.
- Have a Plan: Know your exit routes and safe harbors.
- Wear Appropriate Gear: Dress for the conditions to prevent hypothermia.
How do I report a boating accident to the relevant authorities and what information do I need to provide?
Reporting Process:
- Contact Local Authorities: Call the local Coast Guard or marine patrol.
- Provide Essential Information: Include details such as:
- Location of the accident
- Number of people involved
- Description of the vessels
- Nature of the injuries or damages
- File a Report: Depending on the severity, you may need to file a formal report with your state’s boating agency.