Every year, boating and water safety advocates around the world team up to promote and educate people on the importance of safe boating and life jacket use during National Safe Boating Week. This year’s event, which will be held May 19-25, is the official kickoff of the annual Safe Boating Campaign, now in its 60th year.
Boating safety advocates are encouraged to plan a local event in their community, and the Safe Boating Campaign offers a variety of resources to support these efforts.
Are you planning a National Safe Boating Week event? Here are some ideas for family-friendly events and activities:
Boating safety classes
Boating safety classes are an excellent way for boaters of all ages to learn about being responsible around the water. Topics can include appropriate safety gear and procedures, understanding water conditions and weather, and boat handling. In addition to in-classroom learning opportunities, on-water training can help to empower students with the confidence and skills to operate a boat safely.
Free vessel safety checks
Vessel safety checks take about 15-30 minutes and are a great way to ensure boaters are prepared for any situation and that gear is up-to-date. This is a courtesy examination of the boat to verify the presence and condition of certain safety equipment required by state and federal regulations. Examinations are not a boarding or law enforcement issue. No citations will be given as a result of this encounter. These safety checks can make a real difference to ensure your community is on a path to safer boating!
Life jacket fit station
Life jackets are available for every boating activity, but what type of life jacket is best for a boating activity? A life jacket fit station can help clear up any confusion around life jacket styles and ensure boaters know how to choose the best life jacket for their boating activity. To learn more about life jackets, download fact sheets, or share our Life Jacket Quiz.
Sign the Wear It Life Jacket Pledge
Wearing a life jacket is the simplest life-saving strategy for recreational water activities. Take our Wear It Life Jacket Pledge to show your commitment to responsible boating. Encourage your boating friends to take the pledge too and share their dedication to always wear a life jacket when on the water.
Be sure to get in on the fun by participating in Wear Your Life Jacket to Work Day on Friday, May 18, and the first Ready, Set, Wear It event on Saturday, May 19, to kick off your National Safe Boating Week celebration! Find resources, events near you and additional opportunities to get involved at https://safeboatingcampaign.com/.