As the extended holiday weekend approaches, marking the official end of summer, numerous residents and visitors to the Coastal Bend are gearing up for trips to the beach and water-based activities. Captain Michael Cintron, who oversees the U.S. Coast Guard’s Corpus Christi Sector, offers some essential cautions, particularly for those planning to venture out on boats. He emphasizes that operating recreational vessels can be even more challenging than driving a car, considering factors like wind, waves, and currents.
Captain Cintron emphasized the potential dangers of alcohol consumption while on the water, particularly after prolonged exposure to the hot sun. He warned that this could significantly raise the risk of becoming intoxicated while operating a vessel, potentially resulting in accidents, some of which may be fatal, causing harm to both oneself and others on the water.
According to the ‘Coast Guard’s 2022 Recreational Boating Statistics,’ there were 215 vessel accidents nationwide last year in which alcohol contributed. These accidents resulted in 88 fatalities and 148 injuries. Captain Cintron stressed the importance of being well-prepared with supplies when embarking on a water excursion.
“Seventy-five percent of all recreational boating fatalities involve drownings,” he noted. “Of those victims, 80 percent were not wearing life jackets. So, the primary concern is to ensure everyone wears life jackets, which is the first issue. Secondly, plan your outings on the water well in advance.”
Captain Cintron also underscored the significance of carrying a marine radio in distress and recommended ensuring an adequate supply of water, food, and life jackets for all individuals onboard.