x
Breaking News
More () »

Memorial Day weekend marks start of boating season

Boaters should also file "float plans" with friends or relatives before leaving for a day on the water. That plan should include the location of your trip and a time one would expect you to return.

MUSKEGON, Mich. - One of the biggest events of the season for Muskegon County boaters takes place Sunday May 27, at the Muskegon channel.

Boaters participating in the 13th annual "Blessing of the Boats" will gather around 12:30 pm.

It's one way locals enjoy the holiday weekend. The event marks the beginning of the boating season, something very important on the lakeshore. "It is nice to see summer is actually here," said Steve Reynolds, Deputy with the Muskegon County Sheriff's Department's Marine Division.

Reynolds is calling on all boaters to perform safety checks on their vessels before pushing off for the first time this season. "A safe boating trip starts before you even get on the water," said Reynolds.

Boaters should be checking their boat's mechanical features and battery. Emergency kits including flares, life vests, and radios should all be accounted for.

"You want to make sure that your flares are not expired," Reynolds said. "Make sure that life jackets are the proper size for who's going to be on the vessel with you."

Boaters should also file "float plans" with friends or relatives before leaving for a day on the water. That plan should include the location of your trip and a time one would expect you to return.

Most emergency's can be resolved with a properly working marine radio. More dangerous situations might require assistance from the U.S. Coast Guard.

Coast Guard rescue boats are stationed in both Muskegon and Grand Haven.

And the Coast Guard's rescue helicopter is on stand-by from Memorial Day to Labor Day at the Muskegon County airport.

Muskegon County has 160 lakes, and deputy Reynolds and his boat can't be everywhere. So he's asking boaters to do their part to stay safe.

The Muskegon County Sheriff's Department offers safety inspections for boats. Those can be scheduled by contacting the department's marine unit.

As for the expense of boating, it's not only going to cost more to drive to the lake but also more to operate boats.

Fuel prices at marinas on the lakeshore are higher than last Memorial Day. Marina just like gas stations are at the mercy of market forces.

Prices range from $4.30 to $4.48 heading into the holiday weekend. Marine fuel costs more because it includes special additives that protect boat motors.

Before You Leave, Check This Out