Stay Safe on the Water This Boating Season

Mercer Island and the Puget Sound region have officially entered prime boating season. As crowds head out onto Lake Washington, the Mercer Island Police Department’s Marine Patrol Unit reminds everyone that a fun day on the water starts with safety and preparation.

First, check your documentation. Motorized boaters must carry a Washington State Boater Education Card if operating a vessel with 15 horsepower or greater. By law, this applies to operators age 50 and under. The City’s website lists approved boater education courses.  Additionally, all Washington vessel registrations expire on June 30. Skipping renewal can result in a $125 ticket, so update your decals before you head to the dock.

On the water, safety gear is non-negotiable. Every vessel – including canoes, kayaks, and stand-up paddleboards – must carry a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket for each passenger. Children under 12 are required to always wear theirs while moving. Officers also remind boaters to carry a sound-producing device (like a whistle or horn), a flashlight, a Type B fire extinguisher, and a first aid kit.

Be mindful of environmental hazards. While the afternoon air feels hot, local lake temperatures remain dangerously cold. Sudden immersion can cause involuntary muscle seizing, making swimming difficult even for experts. Always boat with a partner, maintain a reliable communication device, and strictly observe "no wake" buoys within 100 yards of shorelines and bridges. Additionally, know and respect your ability to operate a boat, and avoid risky maneuvers that may put you, your passengers, and others in danger.

Finally, never operate a vessel under the influence of drugs or alcohol. A Boating Under the Influence (BUI) charge is a gross misdemeanor carrying fines up to $5,000 and jail time. Stay alert, boat responsibly, and enjoy a safe season on the water.

Comprehensive boater safety information can be found on the Washington State Parks website.