Who: Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office Patrol Operations Bureau - Marine and Environmental Lands Unit
What: In conjunction with National Safe Boating Week and the upcoming Memorial Day weekend, Marine deputies will maintain a high profile on the Pinellas County waterways to ensure a safe holiday for citizens and visitors. The deputies encourage the public to enjoy this time but remind everyone to keep safety in mind when out on the water.
When: National Safe Boating Week is from Saturday, May 21, 2016 to Friday, May 27, 2016 and the Memorial Day holiday weekend begins the morning of Saturday, May 28, 2016, and continues until midnight on Monday, May 30, 2016.
Where: The areas of emphasis are Pinellas County waterways.
Why/How: The Sheriff’s Marine Unit will maintain a proactive profile during National Safe Boating Week and over the holiday weekend on the waterways of Pinellas County.
Before getting underway, marine deputies remind everyone of the following:
Additionally, for those planning to spend time on the water, “Operation Kid-Float” is a program available to citizens that loans personal floatation devices (PFDs) to children. Children under the age of six must wear a PFD while underway and the Marine Unit recommends that PFDs be readily accessible to all occupants of a vessel.
Marine deputies will have PFDs on board and will hand them out as needed following boat safety equipment inspections. PFDs can be returned at the PCSO Marine Facility (drop-off bin only) located at 19305 Gulf Boulevard in Indian Shores. Citizens can also pickup and drop off loaner PFDs at the three locations below:
With proper preparation and attention, boaters will enjoy their time on the water - every time, helping us to lead the way for a safer Pinellas. For additional information please contact the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office Marine Unit or Environmental Lands Unit at 727-582-6200.
Non Emergency Line: (727) 582-6200 | In an Emergency call 911ADA info