CHICOPEE, Mass. (WWLP) – Police are reminding boaters that it is illegal in Massachusetts to ride on the bow of a moving boat.
The Massachusetts Environmental police say passengers on a boat are not allowed to ride, sit, or stand on the front deck of a moving boat. They say that it is not only illegal in Massachusetts but also extremely dangerous.
New Massachusetts law requires boater safety certification in 2026
Bow riding could be deadly as it poses a high risk of falling overboard, propeller injuries, lack of safety gear, visibility issues, and sudden stops and wakes.
As the last weeks of summer wind down, boaters are reminded to be vigilant, wear a life jacket, observe no-wake zones, watch their speed, and be aware of the dangers of boater’s hypnosis.
Summer boating safety tips from Hampden County Sheriff’s Office
- Properly wear a life jacket, even if you can swim.
- Observe no‑wake zones, especially near marinas.
- Watch your speed relative to surroundings and other boats — especially on busy weekends and holidays.
- Bring a Marine VHF radio and remember: Channel 16 is the designated distress channel.
- Anchor from the bow, never the stern; use anchor line at least five times the water depth.
- Know current and upcoming weather conditions — never swim or boat in areas with strong, moving currents.
- Beware of “boater’s hypnosis”: after just four hours of exposure to sun, vibration, noise, wind and motion, your reactions slow nearly as much as when legally intoxicated — and combining that with alcohol increases the danger.
Local News Headlines
Celebrate National Sunflower Day: Pick your own sunflowers at these local farms
DPW to begin crack-sealing on Agawam streets
Man sentenced to life in prison for Fitchburg murder
Mass. resident charged with DUI Drug in Vermont
WWLP-22News, an NBC affiliate, began broadcasting in March 1953 to provide local news, network, syndicated, and local programming to western Massachusetts. Watch the 22News Digital Edition weekdays at 4 p.m. on WWLP.com.…