DON'T PULL YOUR BOAT FROM THE WATER JUST YET - STATE WATERCRAFT OFFICIALS SAY FALL SEASON PROVIDES GREAT BOATING OPPORTUNITIESCOLUMBUS, OH - The upcoming Labor Day holiday weekend may mark the last boat outing of the year for many Ohioans, but state watercraft officials say that excellent boating weather continues through September and October, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR). "For many Ohio boaters, Labor Day weekend concludes a summer of fun on the water fishing or pleasure boating," said Ken Alvey, chief of the ODNR Division of Watercraft. "But, the fall season has also been keeping boaters on the water with excellent fishing opportunities, less crowded waterways, and great fall color viewing opportunities." The ODNR Division of Watercraft encourages those boating in the fall months to take extra caution since the water is colder, setting the stage for hypothermia should an accident occur. The Division of Watercraft offers the following tips for boating in the fall season: * Always properly wear a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket while boating * Address hypothermia - Dress in layers, etc * Avoid alcohol consumption * Keep a proper lookout while boating * Don't overload your boat with passengers and gear * Observe the boating rules of the road * Be alert to all existing and forecasted weather conditions * File a float plan with a responsible person * Be prepared to assist in an emergency situation Fall hunters and anglers who are using boats should pay particular attention to not overload their boat with people and gear. Stability in small watercraft is especially important to avoid capsizing a boat.
Source: ODNR
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