Boating season is underway and captains are ready to ride the waves.

While it's a thrilling experience to cruise in the Great Lakes, responsibility for one's passengers and of the person behind the wheel should be a priority.

“If you live your weekends out on the water, remember safety comes first for all those on board your boat,” said Allstate's New York spokesperson Krista Conte in a press release.

“Boaters often find themselves unexpectedly in the water due to a collision.

Make sure each person wears a coast guard approved personal floatation device (PFD) that accommodates his or her size and weight.”

According to the U.S. Coast Guard, nearly 90 percent of all boaters who drowned were not wearing a PFD. PFDs should fit snugly and help keep your chin above water when in use.

Since they deteriorate with time and use, PFDs should be tested at least twice a year and replaced when they lose their buoyancy.

Boater's checklist:

€ Always wear a personal flotation device (PFD) when boating

€ Don't use an inflatable toy as a substitute for a PFD

€ Never drink and boat

€ Pay attention to weather changes; head for shore when winds increase or storm clouds roll in.

€ Always tell someone where you're going and when you plan to return

€ Be aware of exhaust emissions; avoid areas where carbon monoxide collects in and around your boat

€ Follow Red-Right-Running: Keep red buoys to your right (starboard) and green buoys to your left (port)

€ Take a boating safety course from an expert organization (e.g. U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary or U.S. Power Squadron)

- Source: Allstate's Boat Safety brochure