WASHINGTON, Oct. 9 -- The U.S. Department of Homeland Security's U.S. Coast Guard issued the following news release:

SEATTLE - The Coast Guard Northwest District is urging all commercial mariners, recreational boaters, and coastal visitors throughout the Pacific Northwest to prepare for heavy weather season.

Many accidents on the water and along the coast can be prevented by taking basic safety precautions, including wearing a life jacket, planning ahead and maintaining situational awareness.

The Coast Guard recommends the following precautions to stay safe:

* Wear a life jacket. Drowning accounts for 76 percent of boating deaths. You can find more information on life jackets here: Safe Boating Campaign - Life Jackets.

* Check bar co...