According to U.S. Coast Guard Boating Statistics for 2006, 104 of the 123 people who were struck by a recreational boat or its propeller were struck by vessels measuring 25 feet or less. That's a whopping 85 percent! And that figure is likely on the low side because in an additional 14 instances, the size of the boat was unknown.

Given the number of boaters out there, the figures aren't huge, but they're hardly insignificant, either. Clearly some safety precautions are in order to prevent boat-people collisions, starting with paying attention.

Face it, swimmers and/or divers aren't as easy to see as another boat. So you need to watch out for them in congested waters, in anchorages and in designated swimming areas. Slow down, and don't assume any area is clear. How many times have you seen a boat towing a tube full of kids in a busy channel? Just because it's foolish doesn't mean people aren't doing it. Having a designated lookout as an extra set of eyes is a necessity, not a luxury.

You also need to pay attention to your own passengers. Don't start your engine(s) until your passengers are safely onboard, and be sure you turn off the engine(s) before they disembark. When you're underway, instruct passengers to stay in their seats. Someone seated on the transom, a seatback, the gunwale or even the bow can easily be pitched overboard if the water gets rough.

If you're towing water skiers or tubers, you and/or your designated lookout need to keep them in sight constantly. Be sure to do your towing in areas where those in the water are not likely to be at risk from other boats. Stay away from high-traffic areas.

A little extra attention to what's going on around you may mean the difference between tragedy and an enjoyable day on the water for everyone.

- Linda Hoff