Boating captains in New Jersey are preparing for what could be a record-breaking number of watercraft on the bays, lakes and ocean this holiday weekend.

Capt. Walt Bohn of Sea Tow Central New Jersey says most boating incidents are completely preventable and often happen when people ignore basic safety rules.

He urges boaters to slow down and cut their engines if swimmers are nearby.

Bohn also warns that the shallow waters of Barnegat Bay make it easy to run aground, especially if boaters aren’t paying attention to the tides.

“Everyone needs to take their time,” Bohn said. “New Jersey is beautiful on the water. You can cruise around all over New Jersey and see different things and the different sites. The views. We have a lighthouse here in Barnegat. We have these islands. The water's been crystal clear blue. We have to be able to take that time. Enjoy those views and not rush around.”