If you witness dangerous or reckless boating, you should report it to the appropriate authorities as soon as possible. Here’s how:

1. Report to the Local Marine or Boating Authority

Most states have a Boating Law Enforcement agency, such as:

• U.S. Coast Guard (USCG): Call 1-800-424-8802 or use this website
• State Boating Authority: Search for your state’s boating laws and reporting procedures at NASBLA (National Association of State Boating Law Administrators)
• Local Harbor Patrol or Marine Police: Contact your county’s waterway law enforcement

2. Call Law Enforcement for Immediate Danger

• 911 if it’s an emergency (collision, intoxicated driver, injury, etc.)
• Local Sheriff’s Office or Police Marine Unit for non-emergencies

3. Gather Important Information Before Reporting

• Boat description (color, type, size)
• Boat registration number (displayed on the hull)
• Location and time of the incident
• Description of reckless behavior (speeding, intoxication, erratic driving)
• Dashcam, phone, or GoPro footage (if available)

4. Report to the U.S. Coast Guard for Serious Incidents

If the reckless boating caused an accident, you must report it to the USCG or your state boating authority if it involves:

• Injury requiring medical attention
• Death
• Property damage over $2,000
• A missing person

Use the Boating Accident Report (BAR) form, available here under “Accident Reporting.”