Recreational boating is not just a pastime; it’s a thrilling way of life in Stevens County. Whether you’re casting a line, towing the kids on a tube, or cruising across the lake at sunset, our waters offer a unique sense of freedom and joy. But with that freedom comes responsibility to each other, our environment, and the safety of everyone who shares our beautiful lakes and rivers.

Stevens County is home to over 20 lakes, and their care and safety depends on all of us. Our local Sheriff’s Department and Marine Patrol officers work hard to keep us safe, but they can’t be everywhere at once with such a vast expanse of water to cover. That’s why it’s so important that we, as boaters, step up as the primary stewards of these lakes, taking an active role in their preservation and safety.

Being a responsible boater means more than knowing the rules; it means showing respect and looking out for one another. We’re not just individuals on the water but part of a larger boating community. We owe it to ourselves and others to operate safely, respectfully, and with awareness, fostering a sense of camaraderie and shared responsibility.

Be a good Samaritan

One of the most powerful things we can do is lend a hand when someone needs help. Helping another distressed boater is a basic neighborly courtesy, but not legally required. Washington state’s “Good Samaritan” law protects individuals who voluntarily provide aid during emergencies, including boating incidents. This law helps remove the fear of legal liability, encouraging boaters to do the right thing. Whether someone is out of fuel, broken down, or needs a tow back to the dock, stopping to assist builds an environment of trust and kindness on the water.

Stay clear of firefighting aircraft

During the wildfire season, another concern is regarding firefighting aircraft. When helicopters or planes are drawing water from our lakes, boaters must stay out of their way. These pilots often fly low and fast, under extreme pressure, and any interference, even accidental, can create dangerous situations. For example, suppose a firefighting helicopter has to abort a water pickup when a personal watercraft unknowingly enters the drop zone. In that case, those few seconds of delay risk a collision and interrupt efforts to control a moving fire. If you see a firefighting aircraft approaching, immediately move your boat to the nearest shore and remain clear until they have safely completed their operation. Quick, respectful action on our part helps protect the lives of firefighters and our communities.

Respect the environment

We also must protect the natural beauty of our waters, as Stevens County is home to diverse wildlife. Responsible boating includes minimizing noise pollution, such as avoiding excessive engine revving near nesting areas or blaring music late in the evening, disposing of trash properly rather than leaving bottles, fishing line, or food wrappers in the water, and keeping a respectable distance from waterfowl and animals along the shoreline. If you see a family of birds in the water, slow down or steer wide to avoid disturbing them. One practical tip is to use a shaker siphon pump when refueling your boat on the water to give you better control and reduce the risk of fuel spills that can harm fish, coat birds’ feathers, and pollute the shoreline.

Mind your wake

Another area where we must all stay vigilant is our wake — the waves a boat creates while moving. A boat’s wake can cause serious problems if not properly managed. Large wakes can capsize small boats, knock people off balance, damage docks, and erode fragile shoreline habitats. It’s illegal in Washington state to cause property damage or endanger others in your wake, and you can be held financially responsible for any damage. Always slow down when passing near other watercraft, shorelines, and swimming areas, and keep an eye on your wake size as you operate.

Know the rules of the road

Navigation rules, often called the “rules of the road,” are essential knowledge for every boater. They’re not just for large lakes, as these rules apply everywhere. One common point of confusion is the direction during towing activities. Many local lakes have established counterclockwise traffic patterns for water skiing and tubing, so follow the designated direction to avoid collisions and confusion.

Right-of-way rules on the water are like those on land. When two boats approach each other, the one on your right (starboard) generally has the right-of-way. That’s why your starboard navigation light is green, and your port (left) light is red. If you see a red light on another vessel at night, it’s a clear signal to yield the right-of-way. Knowing and using these rules keeps you safe and shows consideration for everyone else on the water.

We’re fortunate to live in a place as naturally rich and beautiful as Stevens County. With that comes the opportunity and responsibility to preserve our waterways for future generations. Being a safe, courteous boater helps ensure that our lakes stay accident-free and enjoyable.

Attend a boating safety class

I plan to teach a comprehensive four-hour boating safety class on June 17, starting at 5 p.m. at Stevens Fire District 1 Station 2, 3962 WA-292 in Loon Lake. This class will be discounted from $40 to $35 if you email me and mention the South Stevens County Times. If you want to bring a friend, the cost will be reduced to $30 per person. You will receive a U.S.C.G. Auxiliary Certificate and a Wallet Card upon passing a mandatory multiple-choice exam at the end of the class with at least a score of 80%. You can then apply for the Boater Education Card with the Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission.

If you have questions about boating safety, want to share your thoughts, or have a suggestion for next month’s column, please get in touch with me at stephan.reckie@cgauxnet.us. Your feedback helps guide the topics that matter most to our boating community.

Thanks for reading. As always, I wish you safe boating. Let’s keep our waters safe, clean, and full of good memories.