Highland Beach Police Department

05/22/2026

To ensure boater safety, always maintain 360-degree awareness to avoid collisions, which are frequently caused by operator inattention. Keep your head on a swivel for other vessels, channel markers, and hidden obstacles. Actively monitor weather changes, designate a sober driver, and ensure passengers remain seated while in motion.

05/21/2026

Taking a NASBLA-approved boating safety course is essential. Choose an accredited, interactive course. Courses teach legal requirements, navigation rules, and emergency procedures. Carrying your education card, and practice skills like docking and handling to build confidence before heading out.

05/20/2026

Preparing for the unexpected while boating involves filing a float plan, checking weather forecasts, and carrying essential safety gear like life jackets, fire extinguishers, and sound-producing devices. Always designate an assistant skipper, monitor conditions for sudden changes, and use VHF Channel 16 for emergencies. VHF Channel 16 is the mandatory international distress, safety, and calling frequency in Florida (and nationwide), operating on a frequency of 156.8 MHz. It is monitored 24/7 by the U.S. Coast Guard and must be monitored by all vessels underway. Use it for emergencies (Mayday) or initial contact, then switch to a working channel.

05/19/2026

Never boat under the influence (BUI) of alcohol or drugs, as it is a leading factor in roughly one-third of all recreational boating fatalities. Sun, wind, noise, and vibration accelerate impairment, meaning drinkers become impaired faster on the water than on land. Always designate a sober operator, consume non-alcoholic beverages, and keep alcohol off the vessel.

05/18/2026

A float plan is a critical safety document shared with a trusted contact before boating, detailing your vessel, passengers, route, and expected return time. It significantly aids rescue efforts if you are overdue. For maximum safety, download a USCG float plan form to ensure all key details are documented and communicated.

05/17/2026

An Engine Cut-Off Switch (ECOS) is a vital safety device that automatically shuts down a boat's engine if the operator falls overboard or moves from the helm, preventing runaway vessels and propeller strikes. Connect the lanyard to your life jacket, belt loop, wrist, or thigh to ensure it pulls if you move. The lanyard should be short enough to activate the switch but long enough to allow for normal helm movement, usually 48 to 72 inches. Use wireless fob or wearable ECOS devices for more freedom of movement if traditional lanyards are too restrictive. Regularly verify that the ECOS mechanism works properly before heading out.

05/16/2026

Today starts National Safe Boating week. Over the course of the week HBPD will be sharing helpful safety tips while on the water. Never just bring a life jacket - wear it, as accidents happen too fast to put one on in an emergency. Federal law requires children under 13 to wear a USCG-approved life jacket while underway. Ensure your life jacket is the right size, in good condition, and snugly fastened.

04/27/2026

April is National Distracted Driving Awareness Month, which aims to reduce deaths and injuries from distracted driving. Over 2,800 people are killed annually in the United States due to distracted driving.

Here are some key prevention tips:
▶ Put Phones Away: Use "Do Not Disturb" features or place phones in the backseat.
▶ Set GPS Before Driving: Program navigation before leaving.
▶ Designate a Texter: Allow passengers to handle phone tasks.
▶ Speak Up: Passengers should ask drivers to focus on the road.

Staying focused while driving saves lives, even a few seconds of distraction can lead to a fatal consequence.

03/18/2026

01/26/2026

Sparky is here to share helpful, easy-to-follow tips designed to keep our community safe, informed, and prepared. From everyday safety reminders to important community awareness, "Sparky Says… safety starts with knowledge!"

Follow along as Sparky brings safety tips to life—one paw at a time! 🐶💙

Be sure to like, share, and stay tuned for future "Sparky Says…" editions.