ESSEXVILLE -- The windy conditions forecasted for Labor Day weekend might not make a boat the most ideal place to vacation, but the U.S. Coast Guard office out of Essexville is looking out for those who do decide to venture out.
NBC25 talked with Petty Officer Max Duncan about some key safety measures to keep in mind when on the water. He said boaters need to make sure they have the right kind of life jackets with them. The right kind includes those approved by the US Coast Guard, and say so on the packaging.
There are other items needed as well.
“If you are out on the Saginaw Bay or any open water in the Great Lakes you’re going to need flares at night,” he said. Whistles, lights and portable GPS systems are also recommended by Coast Guard officials.
*click on the video to watch a demo of Duncan examining life jackets and flares.
