Alaska State creates boating safety checklist

http://dnr.alaska.gov/parks/boating/index.htm
http://dnr.alaska.gov/parks/boating/resources.htm

With over 33,000 miles of shoreline, more than 3,000 rivers, and over 3 million lakes, Alaska is a boater's paradise. Unfortunately, Alaska has one of the highest boating fatality rates in the nation. Alaskan boaters are often a long way from assistance and the water is very cold. An unprepared boater is taking unnecessary risks. The state of Alaska has created a boating safety checklist after many fatalities this year.

The Alaska Office of Boating Safety has developed the checklist, which includes safety messages addressing the highest risks to boaters in the state.

There have been 13 boating fatalities this year.

The Division of Parks and Outdoor Recreation, which oversees the boating safety office, is asking all vendors approved to rent boats in state parks to provide a boating safety orientation to anyone who rents a boat. Vendors also are being asked to document the renters' understanding of the safety orientation

Some vendors already do this, but the safety orientation is set to become a requirement in 2013

http://dnr.alaska.gov/parks/boating/pdf/watercraftorientationcklist82812.pdf