Whom should you contact if you observe suspicious activities on the waterways?

Contacting the U.S. Coast Guard if you observe suspicious activities on the waterways is important because they are the federal agency responsible for ensuring the safety and security of navigable waters. The U.S. Coast Guard is equipped to respond to a range of situations, including emergencies and suspicious activities that may threaten public safety or security. They have the authority and resources to investigate such concerns and can coordinate with other law enforcement agencies as needed.

While local police departments do handle various law enforcement matters, they may not have jurisdiction or the specialized knowledge required for incidents occurring on water bodies. Marinas are generally focused on servicing vessels and their occupants, making them less equipped to handle or respond to suspicious activities. Informing friends on the water, while well-intentioned, does not provide an effective or official response to a potentially serious situation. The U.S. Coast Guard represents the best and most appropriate option in these scenarios.