Now is the time to get back on the water and enjoy the many rewards and opportunities on our marine environment. Here is some of what you need to know to prepare for this boating season.

Your role in keeping our waterways safe and secure are:

Keep your distance from all military, cruise-line or commercial shipping! Do not approach within 100 yards, and slow to minimum speed within 500 yards of any U.S. navel vessel, including any U.S. military or military supply vessel. Violations of the Naval Vessel Protection Zone face up to 6 years in prison and a $250,000 fine, not to mention a quick and severe response. Approaching certain other commercial vessels may result in an immediate boarding.

Observe and avoid all security zones. Avoid commercial port operation areas, especially those that involve military, cruise-line or petroleum facilities. Violators will be perceived as a threat and will face a quick, determined and severe response.

Do not stop or anchor beneath bridges or in the channel. If you don’t then expect to be boarded by law enforcement officials.

Keep a sharp eye out for anything that looks peculiar or out of the ordinary. Report all activities that seem suspicious to the local authorities or Coast Guard. Do not approach or challenge those acting in a suspicious manner.

Always secure and lock your boat and take keys with you with you when not on board. This includes while visiting marina restaurants or a friend’s dock or other piers. Never leave your boat accessible to others. When storing your boat, make sure it is secure and its engine is disabled. If it is on a trailer, make the trailer as immovable as possible.

For more information on how you can help call (800) 368-5647 or go to www.uscboating.org.

The above is a reprint from the Coast Guard Brochure for Homeland Security.