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United States Coast Guard officials sent a warning to all boaters that the most likely way to get killed or maimed while on a boat is to ride on the bow of the boat. Therefore, the Coast Guard will be cracking down on illegal bow riding, especially on vessels such as pontoon boats and small fishing boats. Children are even more susceptible to bow-related injuries because they are extremely likely to bounce off the bow. The bow is also one of the rougher areas to ride on a boat as opposed to riding on the back. Nathan Henise, Coast Guard Petty Officer 2nd Class, compared riding on the bow of the boat to riding on the hood of the car.
Coast Guard officials will stop those people who appear to be in violation and caution them. Those committing egregious violations risk being charged with negligence. If you would like to read more about this topic see Coast Guard cracks down on bow riding.
It is important to be safe while riding on a boat. Boats reach high speeds and boaters are not secured by safety devices such as seat belts. Even if you or your child is wearing a life vest, both still run the risk of sustaining serious injury from the boat’s propeller if thrown from the bow. Therefore, teach parents and guardians need to teach their children to be cautious while on a boat.