Syracuse, NY, May 21, 2011 - As seen in this clip from the Syracuse, NY-based CNY Central News, more boating opportunities are opening up as the high water goes down (Onondaga Lake Park's Marina and boat ramps are opening this Memorial Day Weekend on Saturday, May 28, 2011). And with the boating season getting underway, there's a Clean and Safe Boating education campaign underway, as well.

Dave White, from NY Sea Grant, brought a pair of NY-made boats to our studios on Saturday morning, to show how the first time out is a good time to review safety procedures:  Life jackets must be available to all and children should be wearing them al all time while on the water. Everyone on board should know where they are stowed, and they should be kept in an easily accessible place.  A review of other safety precautions - and equipment - should also happen regularly.

In addition, White says boats should carry and use anti-pollution equipment, like a fuel-nozzle bib and an oil-absorbent bilge sock.

And, White says clean boating practices should also be in place - for both motorized and non-motorized vessels, to make sure that everything that comes in contact with the water (bait nets, swim fins, trailers) is not spreading invasive species like weeds and zebra mussels.

The Boat Owners Association of The United States also has a list of boating safety tips for this season.