GREEN BAY, WI (WTAQ) – People have a chance to ensure their boats are safe before hitting the waters this season.
The U.S. Coast Guard and Green Bay Police Department’s Marine Unit are partnering to host an open house Saturday.
Police Captain Kevin Warych notes they are offering free vessel checks.
“It’s a good time to have the person tell you that something is needed on the boat: when you’re in a controlled setting, when you’re asking for feedback, versus when you get stopped for a violation. Then the safety check takes on a different meaning, because you are operating the boat in an unsafe manner.”
Boaters can ask questions and will learn safety tips, such as creating an emergency float plan before heading out for the day and wearing life jackets.
Warych says officials will also discuss the maritime services that are provided.
“Whether that’s (responding to) a disabled boat, whether that is a crash investigation or a medical emergency on the water.”
Despite those offerings, Warych notes it is important for people to be prepared.
“Sometimes the services are not available at a moment’s notice like they are on a neighborhood street. It may take a little extra time for us to respond if the boat is in the middle of the bay or disabled in the river.”
Warych says attendees will also get an interactive experience.
“The Green Bay Police Department Marine Unit Vessel #109 will be there for people to view, board, and talk to the marine officers to really get a good understanding of what the marine unit in Green Bay does on the river.”
The open house runs from 11 am to 3 pm at the Coast Guard Station located at 100 Bay Beach Road, next to the Metro Boat Launch.
