Carter Viss Foundation

Carter was just another Florida kid who lived for the weekends on the water.
He didn't know that his story would become one of survival and resilience. He didn't know that his voice would eventually protect divers and boaters across the state.

Do you have a Florida kid who loves the water? Double tap to support the mission of keeping them safe.
Learn more about our mission: www.cartervissfoundation.org

While many are terrified of a shark encounter, the reality is that the biggest threat on the water is often at the other end of the boat or right at the operator’s console.

Sharks are a vital part of our ecosystem, but the overwhelming majority of Florida boating accidents, injuries, and fatalities are caused by factors that are 100% preventable. At the Carter Viss Foundation, we aren't here to scare you; we are here to prepare you. It’s time to refocus our vigilance on the silent, hidden killers that change lives in an instant:

✔️Propeller Strikes: These are not injuries; they are tragedies. A spinning propeller will cause catastrophic harm to an unsuspecting diver or swimmer. Always assume there is life in the water.
✔️Not Wearing Life Jackets: Complacency kills. The single most predictive factor of whether you survive a fatal accident is whether you are wearing a PFD. Having them "onboard" is not enough.
✔️Distracted/Impaired Operation: Speed and smartphones are a deadly mix, add alcohol, and your reaction time disappears.
✔️Speed in Crowds: At high speed, that legal 300 foot 'football field' buffer for a diver is covered in 4.5 seconds. If you can’t stop, you’re going too fast.
We can change these statistics. By increasing our awareness, committing to the rules, and advocating for innovation, we can make our waterways safer for everyone.

Share this post if you believe in prioritizing safety over speed. Double tap to support the mission!

Navigating Florida's new boating regulations just got simpler.
We know that a safe, informed season is the best kind of season. The 2025 Boater Freedom Act (SB 1388) introduced the Florida Freedom Boater Decal Program, a significant step toward streamlining safety and protecting law abiding boaters like you.

Here is what you need to know about the decal:
Decal Location: Must be displayed within 6 inches of your vessel registration decal.
Validity: Valid for five (5) full years.
The Goal: To reduce interruptions while ensuring compliance. A safer waterway is better for everyone, drivers, divers, and marine life alike.
Important Note: The decal reduces, but does not eliminate, stops. For the Carter Viss Foundation, compliance is just the beginning. Let's work together to protect our waters and each other by elevating our safety and awareness.

Learn more about our mission: www.cartervissfoundation.org https://bit.ly/4958Hn5

Did you know Florida hosts some of the biggest boat shows on the planet?
From Fort Lauderdale to Miami, these events are major economic drivers and a key part of our state's unique maritime culture. They are also incredibly popular, drawing huge crowds.

But while we celebrate the excitement of new vessels and the latest gear, we must always prioritize safety. A responsible boater knows that preparation and vigilance prevent tragedies. At every show, we must advocate for a safer, more sustainable boating community for everyone.
We stand with every person who loves the water and works to keep it safe. Join us in making this Florida's safest, most responsible boating season yet.

Let's make sure our children can enjoy these waters too.
Learn more about The Carter Viss Foundation: www.cartervissfoundation.org https://bit.ly/4958Hn5