Wake Responsibly Pathway provided by NHMTA and NH Marine Patrol
NH Marine Trades Association and NH Marine Patrol Launch Summertime Awareness Campaign to Encourage Boating Enthusiasts to Follow Basic Tips for a Safe and Fun Day on the Water
CONCORD – The signs are spreading throughout New Hampshire’s marinas, boat launches and popular spots on the water. And now, radio ads and videos are hitting airwaves and social media platforms with a universal message from the NH Marine Trades Association and the NH Department of Safety, Division of State Police Marine Patrol Unit…to "Wake Responsibly." Boating enthusiasts are being encouraged to keep three simple tips in mind when choosing to participate in increasingly popular wake sports: keep 200-feet from shore, keep the music volume down and don’t make repetitive passes in the same area. Easy guidelines for maximum fun!
Responding to the growth in popularity of tow boats, sometimes referred to as “wake boats”, a coalition of New Hampshire marine retailers, law enforcement, boat manufacturers and water sport enthusiasts are working together to make sure these activities are performed safely and properly on all waterways. This summer, marine retailers and public docks are decorated with signs urging families to “Wake Responsibly”, with specific tips on best practices for wake sports.
“We hope families can help spread the word to ensure there are no negative impacts of this popular recreational activity,” explains Peter MacCallum, owner of MacCallum’s Boathouse in Northwood, and President of the NH Marine Trades Association. “Boating sales have increased since the pandemic began, but people have to remember they share the water with a wide variety of people who enjoy the waterways in different ways and we want to do our part to promote respectful and safe behavior.”
With increased congestion means increased risk for accidents or problems; this campaign is an effort to remind everyone to be aware. “The only way any damage is done and injuries occur is if people lose sight of their surroundings,” explains Chris Bischoff of the Water Sports Industry Association. “There are so many new boaters on the waterways this summer, we need to make sure they know, understand and respect the laws, rules and guidelines in place to share the waterways responsibly. "Wake Responsibly" is a national educational campaign to encourage best practices in wake sports and we are encouraged to see New Hampshire taking the lead."
“Boating popularity is high in New Hampshire, especially this summer,” explains Captain Tim Dunleavy of the New Hampshire Marine Patrol. “By following boating laws and demonstrating respectful boating etiquette you can do your part to ensure that everyone is safe when enjoying New Hampshire’s public waters.”
Former NH State Representative Pam Price, an owner of a towboat and member of a 2020 legislative commission which studied the impact of boating on waterways says common sense and respect often prevent problems. “The lakes in New Hampshire are held in public trust for all to enjoy. We have a short boating season in New Hampshire and a nice weekend means it will be busy on the water. It is critical for boaters to be educated about our laws and practice good boating etiquette. As is typical with anything, a few bad apples could spoil it for all.”
NH Marine Trades Association, in collaboration with the NH Marine Patrol and the Water Sports Industry Association has launched a series of radio ads and social media videos to raise awareness about the Wake Responsibly campaign. The Association is working with many stakeholders in the boating community to promote awareness about the safety effort.
For more information about the NH Marine Trades Association, go to www.boatingnh.com