Boating Accidents down in 2013

[BroadHopper]

http://www.unionleader.com/article/2...WS07/140519645

Good article from Lt Dunleavey, accident down substantially in 2013 because of boater's safety course. Not much change in BUI unfortunately.

Boat registrations have never recovered since 2007.

[upthesaukee]

I thought he had been promoted to Captain, either last year or the year before. Or am I dreaming in his behalf?

I also wonder if last year's statistics may be down more due to the not so great summer weather than boater education. I know our boat use was down quite a bit last year over the 2012 season. Additionally, the Marine Patrol staff had been cut dramatically last year, if I remember correctly, and that could also account for a reduction is citations. Fewer officers on patrol equals less chances to catch the violators.

[jrc]

Fewer accidents and especially fewer deaths are always good news and I'm glad to hear that news. Maybe my recent skepticism on the boater training is unfounded, maybe something is sinking in.

On the other hand, fewer arrests are not always a good sign. Surely less crime is good, but fewer arrests can because of less crime or fewer police.

[BroadHopper]

There was an announcement last year or the year before that Dunleavey was promoted to Captain, and I can remember the title Captain on a letterhead. Sounds like the reporter is being biased? (Most reporters are )

[EllyPoinster]

Originally Posted by upthesaukee

I thought he had been promoted to Captain, either last year or the year before. Or am I dreaming in his behalf?

http://www.maritimesecurityeast.com/...rs/45-dunleavy

[LIforrelaxin]

Originally Posted by BroadHopper

Good article from Lt Dunleavey, accident down substantially in 2013 because of boater's safety course. Not much change in BUI unfortunately.

I am very skeptical of this remark. While the Boater Safety course is easy to point at, to really quantify that the safe boater course is the cause of the accident reduction is another thing entirely.

Many things are playing a role, the economy, few people with disposable income, means fewer people boating... Weather..... all play a role in this.... I am not saying that this is a false statement. I am just saying that something behind the statement needs to back it up.... I think that the Safe Boater Certificate is still flawed. It certainly better now that you have to take a proctored exam. However it still leaves a lot to be desired.....

[Knomad]

LIforrelaxin:

I agree that there are many factors that influence the reduction in reported accidents, however I don't understand your comment about the "flawed" Boaters Education Course that "leaves a lot to be desired".
Can you please elaborate?

[Billy Bob]

There is no data whatsoever that would indicate that a written course with no on water verification of ability has been the cause of the better statistics.

All that course has done is reduce the number of vacationers that come to the lake. Especially folks from Massachusetts who are inconvenienced because their boating course isn't recognized. ( I'm not from Mass , My Florida course is recognized in NH )
Also , in Florida where we have had a large increase in tourism and boating this past year we have also had a decrease in accidents , and we DON'T require any boating certification.
The flaw is this is just another requirement that is driving away tourism.

Off subject , the new ,constant police stops on Rt 25 in Moultonboro just after Center Harbor will not make tourists feel great about the lake either .
Live with minimal regulation or die !

[Rusty]

The senate bill passed as amended, 268-79.

[LIforrelaxin]

Originally Posted by Rusty

The senate bill passed as amended, 268-79.

That is the not the bill about the Safe Boater Education Requirement.... that is about another topic, which has nothing to do with the content of this thread.

Don't pull this thread into that mess

[Rusty]

Originally Posted by LIforrelaxin

That is the not the bill about the Safe Boater Education Requirement.... that is about another topic, which has nothing to do with the content of this thread.

Don't pull this thread into that mess

But you said: "Many things are playing a role, the economy, few people with disposable income, means fewer people boating... Weather..... all play a role in this"

Then why can't I have my opinion?

[Webbsatwinni]

Originally Posted by Rusty

But you said: "Many things are playing a role, the economy, few people with disposable income, means fewer people boating... Weather..... all play a role in this"

Then why can't I have my opinion?

Agree with the point, however, my friends with disposable income and boats are going to other places now, as this is too restrictive. They would come to the lake and nearby areas and spend $$ in marinas, restaurants, arcades, attractions for the kids etc. They must really not like these laws to get their boats all salty, and that says a lot .

Along with the great news on reduced boat accidents, does anyone have summer economic spend reports since 2009?

[Rusty]

Whatever the reasons were to make this happen, I am glad that accidents are down substantially in 2013. I wish nothing but the best for people who use and enjoy this great Lake.

[Bear Islander]

I would have to agree that the "cowboy atmosphere" on the lake has been dropping since 2008. I think this has more to do with the drop in accidents than boater education.

The only change in boater education in 2008 was that operators over 50 years old needed certificates. It was phased in a little each year starting in 2002. I doubt operators over 50 were causing enough accidents to skew the data.

I think something else must have happened in 2008 to changed things on Winni.

[Chaselady]

Originally Posted by Bear Islander

I would have to agree that the "cowboy atmosphere" on the lake has been dropping since 2008. I think this has more to do with the drop in accidents than boater education.

The only change in boater education in 2008 was that operators over 50 years old needed certificates. It was phased in a little each year starting in 2002. I doubt operators over 50 were causing enough accidents to skew the data.

I think something else must have happened in 2008 to changed things on Winni.

Wasn't that the year the economy took a nose dive, and gas prices were at an all time high?

[DEJ]

I will side with the expert here and that is Lt Dunleavey who states "accidents down substantially in 2013 because of boater's safety course".

[secondcurve]

Originally Posted by DEJ

I will side with the expert here and that is Lt Dunleavey who states "accidents down substantially in 2013 because of boater's safety course".

I have no idea what the reason is. However, the state official will always support the state's position. That is the way government works and why it is so dangerous. Learn to question authority.

[tis]

I don't think it has anything to do with the safety certificates/courses either. I haven't noticed a bit of difference in the way people drive boats since the certificates were required. In fact, maybe I see a lot drive worse?

[Seaplane Pilot]

They can spin and sugar coat it any way they want, but the fact remains that substantially less boat volume results in less accidents/incidents. On the other hand, I'd like to see what percentage of the accidents that they did record were caused by rental boats. You know, those people that are given the on-site "quiz" by the same guy that's renting the boat to someone? That same guy that will lose out on his $400.00 revenue if he flunks the person taking the test for not knowing the first thing about driving a boat, boating rules, or most importantly SAFETY.

They might as well implement the same policy for renting a plane at Laconia Airport. Take the quiz, jump in and take off.

[chipj29]

I can’t read the article, but is it the number of accidents that was lower, or the percentage of accidents?

If the number of accidents is lower, it could be because there are fewer boats on the lake.
If the percentage of accidents is lower, it could be because of many reasons as mentioned upthread.

[PaugusBayFireFighter]

In the 1990's there was a significant crime drop n the nation. Politicians and law enforcement, of course, took the credit for the drop citing plans implemented by them. Turns out the data shows there were other factors involved that nobody really took into account.
I'm sure the drop in accidents on the lake has something to do with the boaters education course, it doesn't make you a good boater but it's better than nothing. I'm also sure, like the 90's crime drop, there's a lot more to the decrease than just a basic boating test.


Here were some factors that were thought to be the reason for the crime drop in the 90's but, according to the data weren't:
– The strong economy
– The increased use of capital punishment
– Innovative policing strategies
– Gun control laws
– Concealed weapons laws
– The aging of the population

On the other hand, these were four major factors that, according to the data, were responsible for the crime drop:
– Increased reliance on prisons
– Increased number of police
– The bursting of the crack bubble
– The legalization of abortion

This is a link to the paper written by one of the economists who studied the data. http://pricetheory.uchicago.edu/levi...yCrime2004.pdf

[TiltonBB]

Originally Posted by Seaplane Pilot

They can spin and sugar coat it any way they want, but the fact remains that substantially less boat volume results in less accidents/incidents. On the other hand, I'd like to see what percentage of the accidents that they did record were caused by rental boats. You know, those people that are given the on-site "quiz" by the same guy that's renting the boat to someone? That same guy that will lose out on his $400.00 revenue if he flunks the person taking the test for not knowing the first thing about driving a boat, boating rules, or most importantly SAFETY.

They might as well implement the same policy for renting a plane at Laconia Airport. Take the quiz, jump in and take off.

Well, the lake did just fine for the 100 or so years before the "test" and education were a requirement.

But: The onsite "quiz" (test) is by computer online with the state so the "guy that's renting the boat to someone" does not choose to pass or fail the individual, the state does. And, the Marine Patrol does random spot checks of the testing facility to ensure that the rules are being followed. And, the person operating the testing facility must take a state course to be certified to administer the test.

But: Didn't most of us start out without knowing a thing about driving a boat, boating rules or boating safety?

Most boating accidents continue to prove that no matter how many times the government tries you can't legislate common sense!

And, because you mentioned it: I had to take David Emerson at Laconia Airport for a ride in one of his airplanes before he would allow me to rent them!

[BroadHopper]

Originally Posted by Webbsatwinni

Along with the great news on reduced boat accidents, does anyone have summer economic spend reports since 2009?

Plymouth State University issues a report every year in the tourist industry to NH Business Review. I have yet to look for last year's report but I do remember reading that NH have lagged behind our neighboring states in recovering from the 2008 recession. Lakes Region area had taken a big hit. As you know boat registration is down, and for the first time in decades there are slips available at marinas year round. No more waiting lists.
Many restaurants and hostelry are for sale or closed. There are many vacancies in the area on prime weekends and events. I could go on and on!

Take a look at https://www.plymouth.edu/institute-f...-tourism-data/ and see if you can find what you want.

[LIforrelaxin]

Originally Posted by Rusty

But you said: "Many things are playing a role, the economy, few people with disposable income, means fewer people boating... Weather..... all play a role in this"

Then why can't I have my opinion?

Never Said you couldn't have that opinion now did I?
What I said was don't pull this thread down that topic path!

There are many reasons for the decline... your initial post made it very clear that you wanted to contribute the change to one specific thing. I purposely left that issue out, as it is a lightening rod, with strong feelings on both sides. I purposely stay away from that topic, because no good ever comes from bringing it up here....

[Rusty]

Originally Posted by LIforrelaxin

Never Said you couldn't have that opinion now did I?
What I said was don't pull this thread down that topic path!

There are many reasons for the decline... your initial post made it very clear that you wanted to contribute the change to one specific thing. I purposely left that issue out, as it is a lightening rod, with strong feelings on both sides. I purposely stay away from that topic, because no good ever comes from bringing it up here....

That could be true, however it is not your decision to make.

[Chaselady]

It would be nice, if just for once, a thread on the forum didn't turn into a pissing contest....

[MAXUM]

So out of curiosity why does Meredith have a police boat if the MP takes care of all island calls for police business?

[Bear Islander]

Originally Posted by MAXUM

So out of curiosity why does Meredith have a police boat if the MP takes care of all island calls for police business?

Routine police matters are handled by the local police. If you need to report a break in or a dog on the loose you don't call the MP.

The MP are the first responders on the islands and take charge until the local police arrive. The MP also provide transportation for local police, fire and EMTs to and from the islands when necessary.

[MAXUM]

Originally Posted by Bear Islander

Routine police matters are handled by the local police. If you need to report a break in or a dog on the loose you don't call the MP.

The MP are the first responders on the islands and take charge until the local police arrive. The MP also provide transportation for local police, fire and EMTs to and from the islands when necessary.

AH - gotcha. Had to chuckle on the loose dogs... we've been amused by how many have come to visit in the past two years. Never have to worry about company for our dog that's for sure... although it is distracting when we send her out to do her "business"

[Bear Islander]

In my thirty years on the island, what is the most common islander complaint? No it's not speed, or noise, or even taxes. It's Dogs.

[MAXUM]

I spotted a bobcat on Sunday afternoon behind my place walking along the power line... so anyone that's letting their dogs run loose may want to re-consider because if a dog were to tangle with a bobcat, it would not end pretty for the dog.

[LIforrelaxin]

Originally Posted by MAXUM

I spotted a bobcat on Sunday afternoon behind my place walking along the power line... so anyone that's letting their dogs run loose may want to re-consider because if a dog were to tangle with a bobcat, it would not end pretty for the dog.

I would suggest calling Fish and Game... A bobcat, on an island, even one the size of Bear, is like to start running out of food source, and will soon, be making very personal visits to residents.

Fish and Game should be able to come in, and move the Animal to a better suited location.

[LIforrelaxin]

Originally Posted by Chaselady

It would be nice, if just for once, a thread on the forum didn't turn into a pissing contest....

Please note that it is often the same person starting the pissing contest on certain subjects. Most of use try to stay clear of the subjects that end up that way...

[Barney Bear]

Have there been any sightings of the bobcat reported by Maxum in Post #61 above? We hiked the loop trail behind the East Bear Island mail dock with our two small dogs last weekend and, fortunately, did not see any four-legged wild "visitors".

[MAXUM]

I look at it this way.

No question there are fewer people out on the lake and as prices of everything rise I suspect that will continue to decrease over time. Boats are ungodly expensive and gas isn't cheap either. Even rich people have to be wincing a bit when filling up those 100 gallon tanks with 4+ dollar gas. Less people out there the less to get into accidents.

Nice try on the SL being the reason why, not buying it.

That safety course is both good and bad. There are things that everyone cannot hear enough times about general boating rules, etiquette and how to navigate, handle emergency situations etc... on the flip side it doesn't make you drive or handle a boat any better, nor does it make you a seasoned captain. Only experience behind the wheel can do that.

[Webbsatwinni]

Originally Posted by Billy Bob

All that course has done is reduce the number of vacationers that come to the lake. Especially folks from Massachusetts who are inconvenienced because their boating course isn't recognized. ( I'm not from Mass , My Florida course is recognized in NH )
Also , in Florida where we have had a large increase in tourism and boating this past year we have also had a decrease in accidents , and we DON'T require any boating certification.
The flaw is this is just another requirement that is driving away tourism.

Alienate the boaters / vacationers and reduce traffic = reduced accidents, I agree 100%. We have friends that can come stay with us for free but still find it too restrictive to do so. I can't imagine why people that have to rent a hotel to boat here would want to.

[LIforrelaxin]

Originally Posted by Knomad

LIforrelaxin:

I agree that there are many factors that influence the reduction in reported accidents, however I don't understand your comment about the "flawed" Boaters Education Course that "leaves a lot to be desired".
Can you please elaborate?

Why do I say the current Safe Boaters Education Course is Flawed, and leaves a lot to be desired??? That easy...

1. Nothing helps people learn better then experience!!!!
2. People take this course and are left with the feeling that they are "Licensed" to operate a boat. I don't blame the State for this, or the course... it is just how most people feel afterwards... the don't capture the fact that all the course is, is a lesson on safety, and protocol.
3. This course is taught in a class room. With the examine happening at the conclusion of the course. In short there is no proof of memory retention of the facts taught in the course.
4. Being taught only in a class room, leave no possibility of experiencing real world situations, in real time, when you must re-act to a set of circumstances.

The bottom line is having to get a Safe Boating Certificate, is nothing more the a way to satisfy and calm the masses that pushed for tougher regulations on the water. While it has helped in some respects, I still see way to many boaters on the water, that don't have a clue as to what they are doing.... For instance this weekend I watched a cruiser come into NO-WAKE Zone in front of trexlers, running on plane, and not slowing until they where well past the no-wake marker. In the last two years, I have not had a boat correctly yield the right of way, and I can go on and on, but I will get off my soap box...