All entries tagged with “boating safety”

Red Tide Report (Update)

Posted by on Tuesday Oct 30, 2018 8:52 am

Red Tide Report (Update)

Posted by on Thursday Sep 20, 2018 9:07 am

Red Tide Mid-Week Update for September 19, 2018 

Current Conditions
A bloom of the Florida red tide organism, Karenia brevis, persists in Southwest Florida and extends along ~135 miles of coastline, from northern Pinellas to northern Collier counties, and extends offshore (10 miles or more). A patchy bloom of K. brevis, first reported last week, continues in Northwest Florida. Additional details are provided below.

In Southwest Florida, K. brevis concentrations generally decreased in central Manatee and southern Sarasota counties, and increased in Pinellas and northern Collier counties over the past week. Observations of >1,000,000 K. brevis cells per liter (“high” concentrations) occurred in Southwest Florida over the past week, in Pinellas, Manatee, Sarasota, Charlotte, and Lee counties and >25 miles offshore of Lee County. In Northwest Florida, K. brevis was observed in or offshore of Santa Rosa, Gulf, Bay, and Pasco counties, with up to “medium” concentrations observed in Bay County only.

In Southwest Florida, reports of fish kills were received for multiple locations in and/or offshore of Pinellas, Manatee, Sarasota, Charlotte, and Lee counties. In Northwest Florida, reports of fish kills were received in and/or offshore of Walton, Bay and Gulf counties. Respiratory irritation was reported in Southwest Florida (in Pinellas, Manatee, Sarasota, and Lee counties) and in Northwest Florida (in Gulf County).

Forecasts by the USF-FWC Collaboration for Prediction of Red Tides for Pinellas to northern Monroe counties in Southwest Florida predict net southwestern movement of surface waters and southeastern transport of subsurface waters in most areas over the next three days. Forecasts for Northwest Florida predict net southeastern transport of surface waters and northeastern movement of subsurface waters.

The next complete red tide status report will be posted on Friday, September 21st.

Southwest Coast Red Tide Status Map (September 19, 2018)

View a larger map  (September 19, 2018)

Northwest Coast Red Tide Status Map (September 19, 2018)

View a larger map  (September 19, 2018)

Red Tide Report (Update)

Posted by on Thursday Sep 13, 2018 9:01 am

Red Tide Mid-week Update for September 12, 2018

Current Conditions
A bloom of the Florida red tide organism, Karenia brevis, persists in Southwest Florida and extends from northern Pinellas to Lee counties along ~125 miles of coastline. Aerial surveys conducted on 9/6 and 9/11 as well as recent water sampling indicate that the bloom of K. brevis still extends offshore (10 miles or more) in some areas. A bloom of K. brevis was also observed in Northwest Florida for the first time this past week.

Observations of >1,000,000 K. brevis cells per liter (“high” concentrations) occurred in samples collected in or offshore of Pinellas, Manatee, Sarasota, Charlotte, and Lee counties and relative to last week, multiple locations in Pinellas, Sarasota, Charlotte and Lee counties showed increased K. brevis concentrations. Decreased cell concentrations were observed in Collier County. In Northwest Florida, very low to low cell concentrations (<100,000 cells per liter) were reported from Okaloosa to Bay counties.

In Southwest Florida, reports of fish kills were received for multiple locations in and/or offshore of Pinellas, Manatee, Sarasota, and Lee counties. In Northwest Florida, reports of fish kills were received in and offshore of Panama City Beach (Bay County). Respiratory irritation was reported in Southwest Florida (in Pinellas, Manatee, Sarasota, and Lee counties).

Forecasts by the USF-FWC Collaboration for Prediction of Red Tides for Pinellas to northern Monroe counties predict net southern movement of surface waters for most areas and net southeastern transport of subsurface waters over the next three days. Forecasts for Northwest Florida predict net eastern transport of surface and subsurface waters.

The next complete red tide status report will be posted on Friday, September 14^th.

Red Tide Status Map (September 12, 2018)
View a larger map  (September 12, 2018)

 Red Tide Status Update for September 7, 2018

Current Conditions
A bloom of the Florida red tide organism, Karenia brevis, persists in Southwest Florida and extends from Pinellas to northern Collier counties along ~120 miles of coastline. Observations of >1,000,000 K. brevis cells per liter (“high” concentrations) occurred in samples collected in or offshore of Sarasota, Charlotte, and Lee counties only. Relative to last week, multiple locations in Sarasota and Collier counties showed decreased cell concentrations. An aerial survey conducted on 9/6 as well as recent water sampling and chlorophyll satellite imagery indicate that the bloom of K. brevis likely extends offshore (10 miles or more) in some areas of the bloom region. Patchy accumulations of the marine cyanobacterium Trichodesmium were also observed ~10 miles offshore of Manatee and Sarasota counties. Persistent surface currents—prior to, during, and after the passage of Tropical Storm Gordon—likely played a role in transporting cells of K. brevis to the northwest. More specific details are provided below.

• In Southwest Florida over the past week, K. brevis was observed at background to medium concentrations in or offshore of Pinellas County, background to medium concentrations in Manatee County, background to high concentrations in Sarasota County, very low to high concentrations in or offshore of Charlotte County, background to high concentrations in or offshore of Lee County, and medium concentrations in Collier County. For additional information, view the southwest coast report  and map . 
  
  
• In Northwest Florida over the past week, K. brevis was observed at very low concentrations in one sample collected from Bay County. For additional information, view the Northwest Coast report  and map .
  
  
• Samples collected along the east coast of Florida over the past week did not contain K. brevis. For additional information, view the East Coast report  and map .

Fish Kills
Over the past week, reports were received for multiple locations in Pinellas, Manatee, Sarasota, and Lee counties. More detailed information is available at /fishkill.

Respiratory Irritation
Respiratory irritation was reported over the past week in Manatee, Sarasota, and Lee counties. For additional information, view the Southwest Coast report . 

Forecast
Forecasts by the USF-FWC Collaboration for Prediction of Red Tides for Pinellas to northern Monroe counties predict net northwestern movement of surface waters for most areas and net southeastern transport of subsurface waters over the next three days. A change from northwestern to southeastern surface transport is predicted to occur towards the end of this period.  

Red Tide Status Map (September 7, 2018)

View a larger map  (September 7, 2018)

To see detailed information on this week's samples, view the current Statewide Google Earth map for September 7, 2018. 

By using Google Earth, you can zoom in to specific locations and click on stations to see detailed information, including sample date and cell concentration. You must have Google Earth installed on your computer to view this map; the software can be downloaded from the Google Earth website. 

Archived status maps can be found in our Flickr gallery.

Latest Red Tide Status Report Available by Phone
Call 866-300-9399 at any time from anywhere in Florida to hear a recording about red tide conditions throughout the state. Callers outside of Florida can dial 727-552-2448. Standard calling charges apply.

Reports are updated on Friday afternoon except during holidays, in which case the report will be released on the closest day. Additional information, if available, is provided on Wednesday afternoon. To receive an e-mail when the current status has been updated, visit our subscription area.

Additional Information
For additional information about red tide and the current red tide bloom, including information on how to report a fish kill or other wildlife effects, consult health authorities about human exposure, or locate other resources, visit our Red Tide-Related Hotlines and Information Sources article.

Blue-Green Algae Bloom Information

Additional information regarding the current status of algal blooms in South Florida is being consolidated and posted on the Florida Department of Environmental Protection’s website: https://floridadep.gov/dear/algal-bloom.

Red Tide Report (Update)

Posted by on Sunday Aug 26, 2018 11:56 am

 Red Tide Status Update for August 24, 2018

Current Conditions
A bloom of the Florida red tide organism, Karenia brevis, persists in Southwest Florida and currently extends from Pinellas to Collier counties along ~145 miles of coastline. Observations of >1,000,000 K. brevis cells per liter (“high” concentrations) continue to occur at coastal and inshore sites from Manatee to northern Collier counties, and minimal change in cell concentrations was observed for most areas relative to last week. Coastal currents important for transporting cells of K. brevis continue to alternate between predominantly northern or southern flow. Aerial surveys from Pinellas to northern Charlotte counties indicated the presence of offshore blooms of the marine cyanobacterium, Trichodesmium. More specific details are provided below.

• In Southwest Florida over the past week, K. brevis was observed at background to medium concentrations in Pinellas County, very low to high concentrations in Manatee County, background to high concentrations in Sarasota County, low to high concentrations in or offshore of Charlotte County, very low to high concentrations in or offshore of Lee County, and background to high concentrations in Collier County. For additional information, view the Southwest Coast report  and map . 
  
  
• In Northwest Florida over the past week, K. brevis was observed at background concentrations in one sample collected from Escambia County. For additional information, view the Northwest Coast report  and map .
  
  
• Additional samples collected along the east coast of Florida over the past week did not contain K. brevis. For additional information, view the East Coast report  and   map .

Fish Kills
Over the past week, reports were received for multiple locations in Pinellas, Manatee, Sarasota, Charlotte, Lee, and Collier counties. More detailed information is available at http://myfwc.com/fishkill.

Respiratory Irritation
Respiratory irritation was reported over the past week in Pinellas, Manatee, Sarasota, Lee, and Collier counties. For additional information, view the Southwest Coast report . 

Forecast
Forecasts by the USF-FWC Collaboration for Prediction of Red Tides for Pinellas to northern Monroe counties predict variable movement of surface waters, with net southern transport in most offshore areas and net northern transport close to shore, and net southeastern transport of subsurface waters over the next three days.

Red Tide Status Map (August 24, 2018)

View a larger map  (August 24, 2018)

To see detailed information on this week's samples, view the current Statewide Google Earth map for August 24, 2018. 

By using Google Earth, you can zoom in to specific locations and click on stations to see detailed information, including sample date and cell concentration. You must have Google Earth installed on your computer to view this map; the software can be downloaded from the Google Earth website. 

Latest Red Tide Status Report Available by Phone
Call 866-300-9399 at any time from anywhere in Florida to hear a recording about red tide conditions throughout the state. Callers outside of Florida can dial 727-552-2448. Standard calling charges apply.

Reports are updated on Friday afternoon except during holidays, in which case the report will be released on the closest day. Additional information, if available, is provided on Wednesday afternoon. To receive an e-mail when the current status has been updated, visit our subscription area.

Additional Information
For additional information about red tide and the current red tide bloom, including information on how to report a fish kill or other wildlife effects, consult health authorities about human exposure, or locate other resources, visit our Red Tide-Related Hotlines and Information Sources article.

Blue-Green Algae Bloom Information

Additional information regarding the current status of algal blooms in South Florida is being consolidated and posted on the Florida Department of Environmental Protection’s website: https://floridadep.gov/dear/algal-bloom.

Boating Safety Tips for Memorial Day

Posted by on Friday May 24, 2013 3:26 pm

Memorial Day is just around the corner and boaters everywhere are preparing for a relaxing weekend with friends and family. With millions of people in Florida partaking in activities on the water this weekend, we want to remind you of a few boating safety tips that will ensure a fun and safe weekend for everybody.

5 Safety Tips for a Safe Memorial Day Weekend

1. Always Wear a Life Jacket. Life jackets aren't called "life jackets" for no reason. Always be sure to wear yours and make sure that all young children are equipped as well. We recommend life jackets that have been certified by the U.S. Coast Guard.

2. Have A Plan. It's best to know where you will be in relation to land and other important navigational landmarks, always being able to keep your sense of direction. Currents often cause boats to veer off course and can be troublesome if you're not properly prepared.

3. Forget the Alcohol. The majority of boat accidents are alcohol related, so leaving the cooler on land is not only a good idea, but a life saving opportunity as well. Always be responsible when drinking alcohol.

4. Tell People Where You're Going. Let friends and family know where you'll be planning on boating for the day and what time they should expect you back. They'll be able to call for help in the event of a break

5. Inspect the Boat Prior to Launch. Be sure to give your boat a thorough inspection to make sure that everything is in good working condition. Be sure to have an extra fuel supply on board and all necessary survival items such as signal flares and an inflatable life raft. Remember, it's always better to be safe than sorry.

Keep these safety tips in mind and enjoy a fantastic Memorial Day weekend. We'll see you on the water!

Top 10 Boating Tips - What You Need To Know!

Posted by on Tuesday May 7, 2013 3:25 pm

Top 10 Boating Tips from Wave's Boat and Social Club

The sun is shining, the weather is beautiful and the mood is perfect for a day out on the water with family and friends. However, before you depart to enjoy your boating trip, it's important to remember that safety should always come first.

At Wave's Boat and Social Club, boating safety is a top priority for us and we make sure all of our members have a firm understanding of the rules and regulations regarding boat safety and preparation.

Here's our list of the top 10 boating safety tips to ensure a safe and happy journey!

#1. Know the Weather

Always be sure to check the weather forecast prior to leaving the docks. In Sarasota especially, the weather can be quite unpredictable so it's extremely important to have knowledge of tides, currents, sunrise and sunset times and also any small craft advisory warnings.

#2. Have a Pre-Departure Checklist

Perhaps the most important boating tip, having a checklist of mandatory items before departing will help you be prepared for any situation on the water. Items to keep in mind include fuel levels, fire safety equipment, personal flotation devices, flashlights, batteries, emergency flares and of course, don't forget the sunscreen!

#3. Understand and Abide by Boating Safety and Navigational Rules

It's important to have a clear understanding of boating safety and navigational rules, including how boating instruments work, how to read boat speed and navigational signs and areas where boating is restricted. Failure to comply with boating laws could result in further penalties.

#4. Always Wear a Life Jacket

While they may not be the most fashionable items, wearing a suitable flotation device could mean the difference between surviving a boating accident or not. In fact, the majority of boating fatalities have been a result of people not wearing life jackets. Young children especially should have life jackets that fit properly, as well as adults.

#5. Don't Drink and Boat

Much like you wouldn't drink and then drive a car, boating and alcohol do not play well together. In 2009, 16% of all fatal boating accidents were a direct result of alcohol consumption. Be smart and leave the bottles on land. 

#6. Use Common Sense

Common sense is one of the most important boating tips that we can give you. Use your brain and understand that a boat is a big, heavy object and can cause damage just like any other vehicle. Be aware of "No Wake" zones and designated Manatee zones. Be sure to steer clear of large rocks and stay out of shallow waters where sea grass and rocks can be abundant. Use your better judgment when on the water!

#7. Have a Float Plan

From the suggestion of the U.S. Coast Guard, it's always important to have a float plan, advising family, friends or dock staff where you're planning to go boating, how long you'll be out for and when they should expect you back. Try to make this a habit before any boat trip. Not only will it give you peace of mind, but also allows for the proper officials to be notified if you don't return from your trip when expected.

#8. Learn to Swim

Being on the water, knowing how to swim should be no-brainer. Swimming is a vital skill not only for survival, but also in the event that you need to save someone who can't swim. Check out local organizations like the American Red Cross, who often have classes on proper swimming techniques for free.

#9. Have the Proper Documentation

Whether you're renting a boat through a boating club or you own a boat, being prepared with the right documentation is a must. Documentation can include ship papers, radio license, fishing permit, etc. which should be on board at all times.

#10. Familiarize Your Guests

Anyone who is planning on joining you for your boating adventure should be aware of the safety and emergency procedures, should a situation present itself. Before even leaving the dock, be sure that all guests understand what to do in an emergency situation and are able to operate the on-board communications, such as the radio and distress signals.

Boating is an exciting and fun activity for the entire family, but you always want to make sure that safety is at the forefront of your adventures on the open water. Follow the boating tips for safety above and you'll be sure to have a great time boating, with no worries at all. We'll see you on the water!

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