The California Department of Boating and Waterway’s urges boaters to be properly prepared for safe boating this Memorial Day weekend.

California’s waterways will be crowded with motorized and non-motorized vessels. People will boat in groups creating numerous distractions, which can have deadly consequences.

A Lake Tahoe boater gets assistance. Photo/LTN file

Below are some ways in which boat operators can decrease the chances of being involved in a boating accident:

Wear a life jacket.

Avoid alcohol. Everyone who drinks alcohol on board is at risk. Passengers can easily fall overboard, swim near the propeller, or cause vessels to capsize.

Designate a person aboard the vessel to help you act as a lookout.

Carry the required safety equipment such as fire extinguishers, sound signals, navigation lights, and life jackets for every person on board.

Inform everyone on board where the required safety equipment is located.

Turn off the engine when the boat is not moving to avoid propeller injuries.

Detailed information about this information and additional life saving tips can be found in boating safety courses online.