It might not warrant a holiday Hallmark card, but to law enforcement who regularly deal with accidents on the water, National Safe Boating Week, running May 22-28, is pretty important.

Almost half of Florida’s boating accidents reported in 2020 were due to collisions, with 44 percent of those attributed to operator inattention or improper lookout, according to boating accident statistics compiled by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.

FWC encourages boaters to focus on simple, effective steps to make the pastime safer.

“Reminding people to be safe and slow down is our top priority,” said Maj. Rob Beaton, FWC’s boating and waterways section leader. “Nothing can ruin an enjoyable and memorable experience on the water faster than a boating accident.

“Life-changing tragedies often happen because individuals choose to operate a boat while distracted or, worse yet, impaired. Those tragedies are preventable,” Beaton said.

To report people who are boating dangerously, call 888-404-FWCC (3922) or text Tip@MyFWC.com.

More information can be found by visiting MyFWC. com/Boating. You can even search there for the Florida Public Boat Ramp Finder to help you find a great place to launch your boat.

For a copy of the 2020 Boating Accident Statistical Report, visit MyFWC.com/Boating and select “Safety & Education” and “Boating Accidents.” You will also find boating safety tips.