Increasing trend for boater assistance

The BoatUS 24-hour national dispatch centers received over 1800 requests for assistance from recreational boaters and anglers over the four-day (Friday-Monday) Memorial Day weekend. Great weather across the country is the main reason, says the nation’s boat owners group. The 1800 number follows an increasing trend that has grown about 20% over the last five years. BoatUS attributes some of the increase to having more new towing ports but also contributes the requests for assistance due to a short spring commissioning season, which sometimes causes boaters to rush through their pre-season checklist which can lead to breakdowns. Full report.