Maine Game Wardens Have a Warning For Boaters

While there are many reasons why people choose to vacation in Maine, one of the biggest reasons is the state's outdoor activities.

Visitors can go hiking in the mountains, take a kayak out on a quiet lake, go ATVing down a remote trail, or just sit by a campfire under a sky full of stars.  People who visit Maine don't just come to Maine to vacation, they come to Maine to experience it!  There’s a reason people keep coming back: the trails, the water, the woods... It’s all part of the Maine magic.

Whether it is on the lake, a river, or the ocean, one of the state's most popular activities is boating.  As we near Memorial Day Weekend, the unofficial start of summer, Maine Game Wardens have an important message for boaters.

National Safe Boating Week

The week leading up to the long weekend is dedicated to reminding boaters of what they need to keep in mind in order to have a safe and fun time on the water.

According to WCSH 6, Game Warden Charles Sawyer says it is critical that boaters let someone know where they are going.  That way, should you run into trouble, someone will realize that you are overdue and know where to look.

Additionally, boaters should always conduct a safety inspection before taking the boat out.  It is important that you have all of the necessary safety equipment.  Life jackets for enough people on board, an air horn, flares, etc.

It is important to remember that anyone born after January 1st, 1999 needs to take a boater safety course.  Get more details about taking the course from the Maine.gov website.