DOVER, DE — As more people flock to Delaware’s waterways this summer, the Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control (DNREC) is emphasizing water safety. The DNREC Division of Fish and Wildlife, alongside Smyrna’s Citizens’ Hose Company, recently introduced buoyant life rings at Woodland Beach fishing pier and boat ramp.
“Having the familiar circular life preservers close at hand can save a life when someone is in the water and in trouble,” said DNREC Secretary Shawn M. Garvin. “Some of our fishing piers and boat ramps already have these life rings. With the Citizens’ Hose Company and their stalwart member and longtime president, former State Senator Bruce Ennis, we now have these rings available at Woodland Beach.”
Essential Safety Reminders for Boaters
DNREC Secretary Garvin and Delaware Natural Resources Police officers shared key safety tips for boaters:
- Life Jackets for Children: State law requires children aged 12 and younger to wear life jackets while on a boat. It’s recommended for everyone on board to wear a life jacket. Those over 12 must have one easily accessible and properly fitted.
- Life Jackets for All: Encourage passengers aged 13 and older to wear life jackets.
- Slow No Wake Zones: Adhere to these areas to prevent accidents and damage.
- Maintain Vigilance: Keep an eye out and maintain a safe distance from other vessels.
- Navigation Lights: Ensure lights are working during low visibility conditions, such as rain, fog, or nighttime.
- Safety Equipment: Carry a boating education card and necessary safety gear for your vessel size, including a sound-producing device like a horn or whistle, a fire extinguisher, and a Type IV throwable device.
- Canoes, Kayaks, and Paddle Boards: These require life jackets, a whistle or sound device, and a flashlight if operating during low visibility or after sunset.
- Sober Operation: Alcohol is a leading cause of fatal boating accidents. Designate a sober operator.
Mandatory Boater Safety Course
Delaware mandates a boater safety course for individuals born on or after January 1, 1978. Available online, this course covers navigation rules, boat parts, state boating laws, and required safety equipment. Boaters must carry proof of completion, which acts as a driver’s license on the water.
New Life Rings: A Lifesaving Addition
Even with safety measures, readily available life preservers can make a crucial difference during water rescues.
“As of 2024, this is the 138th year for the all-volunteer Citizens’ Hose Company. Since our founding in 1886, we have responded to water rescues in our area. We know time is everything,” said Senator Ennis. “That’s why Citizens’ Hose partnered with DNREC’s Division of Fish and Wildlife to provide these throwable life rings as a vital first response while we are on our way.”
Smyrna’s Citizens’ Hose Company Fire Chief Chip Thompson added, “These life rings are another example of us providing ‘Service for Others.’ We hope these installations will help someone in the water until emergency resources arrive or they can self-rescue. This is a great addition to our district and we know it will make a difference.”
As summer continues, DNREC’s initiative aims to ensure that Delaware’s waterways remain safe for everyone.
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