DNR Reminds Residents to be Safe on the Water

Wednesday, June 28th, 2023 -- 8:01 AM

The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources reminds Wisconsinites and visitors to put safety first by boating sober and wearing a life jacket when they cast off.

Nearly 80% of fatal boating incidents involve drowning. Drowning can happen to even the most experienced swimmers. Most people who drown in boating accidents know how to swim but become incapacitated in the water, such as being injured, unconscious, exhausted or weighed down by clothing.

Alcohol use is a leading factor in recreational boating fatalities. If alcohol is involved in your day of boating, have a designated operator. Operating a boat is no different than driving a car. So far this year, two people have died from boating incidents, and another 20 died in 2022.

Operator inexperience, inattention, recklessness and speeding are the four leading causes of tragic watercraft crashes. Boating incident reports to date for 2023 and previous years are available online. The easiest and most important thing for people to remember is to boat sober and wear their life jackets.

Statistics show boaters who wear life jackets and take boater safety courses are most likely to stay safe on Wisconsin waters. New life jackets are much more comfortable, lightweight and stylish than the bulky orange style most boaters know.

There are innovative options, such as inflatable life jackets, allowing mobility and flexibility for boating, fishing, paddling or hunting and are much cooler in the warmer weather. Sign up now to take an online boater education course.

Always wear a properly fitted life jacket with a snug fit and fastened when you're on or near the water. Life jackets will keep you on top of the water if you walk off an unexpected drop-off, if a wave or current overpowers you or if you fall out of a boat. Enjoy the waters sober and know your limits.

Alcohol blurs a person's judgment, reaction time and abilities. River shorelines and sandbars pose unseen dangers. Higher, fast-moving water can tax an individual's boating, paddling and swimming skills.

Keep an eye on the weather and let someone know where you are going. Remember always to be careful when near or on water, and always wear your life jacket. More boating safety tips are available on the DNR website.

Feel free to contact us with questions and/or comments.