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National Safe Boating Week is May 20-26, 2023

By Kyrie Collins, Macaroni KID Highlands Ranch-Parker-Castle Rock-Lone Tree Publisher May 20, 2023

As boat ramps open and warm temperatures entice people to get outdoors and recreate on the water, National Safe Boating Week is a great reminder to think "safety first" when out on the water this season.

Sadly, 2022 was the deadliest year on Colorado's rivers, lakes, and reservoirs, with 42 water-related fatalities. Most fatalities occurred from people swimming, paddle boarding, kayaking, or using an inflatable, and the vast majority were not wearing a life jacket. Paddle boards and kayaks are considered vessels, and life jacket requirements apply. 

"Wearing a life jacket is especially important when boating during cold water conditions when water temperatures are below 70 degrees," said Grant Brown, Boating Safety Program Manager for Colorado Parks and Wildlife. "Cold water immersion shock coupled with the lack of a life jacket were contributing factors in the majority of drownings in Colorado in recent seasons. We want people to have fun on the water and not be afraid of it, so we encourage you to bring the proper safety gear so you have a positive outdoor experience."


U.S. Coast Guard statistics show that drowning is the reported cause of death in 81% of all boating fatalities, and approximately 83% of those who drown are not wearing life jackets. Visit the Safe Boating Campaign website to learn which life jacket style may be correct for you.


The Safe Boating Campaign and Colorado Parks and Wildlife advise following these safety tips:

  1. Wear a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket whenever you are on the water.
  2. Take a boating safety course. Learn valuable tips to help save your life in unexpected situations by taking a NASBLA (National Association of Boating Law Administrators) approved boating safety course.
  3. Make sure your boat is prepared with all required safety gear. Many items need to be checked and rechecked.
  4. Know your vessel's capacity. If you have too much on your boat, it may become unstable and capsize.
  5. Check the weather, including the water temperature. Keep a regular check for changing conditions.
  6. Dress properly. Always dress for the weather, wear layers for cooler weather, and bring extra clothes in case you get wet.
  7. Always file a float plan. File a float plan with someone you trust, including details about the trip, boat, persons, towing or trailer vehicle, communication equipment, and emergency contacts.
  8. Always follow navigation rules and techniques.
  9. Don't drink alcohol while boating. Alcohol is the leading contributing factor in fatal boating accidents.
  10. Get a safety inspection of your vessel.
  11. Beware of carbon monoxide poisoning. Gasoline-powered engines on boats, including onboard generators, produce carbon monoxide (CO), a colorless and odorless gas that can poison or kill someone who breathes too much of it.
  12. Keep in touch. Communication devices can be the most critical piece of emergency equipment on board a vessel, especially in case of emergency.

Boating is a favorite pastime of many Coloradans. Before boating in Colorado, it is essential to familiarize yourself with Colorado's boating rules and regulations. Following proper safety procedures will help ensure a fun and safe season.

Help ensure that this boating season will be great by following the safety principles and always wearing a life jacket while out on the water. To learn more about boating in Colorado, please visit the CPW Boating page.

For more information about boating safety and life jacket wear, visit safeboatingcampaign.com, and follow them on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube.


Source for statistics: Boating Safety Facts