BOSTON – As part of Operation BoatSmart, the U.S. Coast Guard, Coast Guard Auxiliary, U.S. Power Squadrons and boating agencies from New Jersey to Maine are working together to raise recreational boating and paddling safety awareness during one of the busiest boating weekends of the year.

“If we could communicate two messages for the Labor Day weekend,” said Al Johnson, the 1st Coast Guard District’s recreational boating specialist, “it would be to simply wear your life jacket and be totally aware, at all times, of what’s going on around you.”

Recommendations for safety for boaters include:

. Wearing a Coast Guard approved life jacket, especially children and weak swimmers;

. Awareness of weather and water conditions;

. Never boat or paddle alone, and file a float plan to let others know where you are going;

. Be cautious – don’t exceed your ability to handle your vessel;

. Know that alcohol and drugs contribute to accidents;

. Be constantly aware of other vessels in the immediate area;

. Carry a VHF marine radio, either a fixed system or handheld unit, and be familiar with its operation and radio procedures.

“The VHF radio, monitored on channel 16,” Johnson said, “is your gateway to communicating with the Coast Guard or other vessels in your area and can be a life saver in a distress situation.”

Recreational boating safety courses can be accessed through either http://uscgaux.org, or http://usps.org. Additional course information through the BOAT/U.S. Foundation at (800) 336-BOAT.

For additional boating safety tips, contact www.uscg.mil/ news/boatsafe/Boatsafe.htm.

Al Johnson can be reached at (617) 223-8464 for additional boating and paddling safety information.