The annual campaign kicks off the weekend before Memorial Day with National Safe Boating Week and continues throughout the year.
About
The Safe Boating Campaign is a worldwide effort focused on responsible boating, encouraging boaters to always wear a life jacket while on the water.
It’s tempting to not wear a life jacket while on the water, especially on nice days. You want to get some sun, you think you’ll get too hot, or you think you’re a strong swimmer. But whether you’re going fishing or just enjoying a ride on the boat, there’s never an excuse to not wear a life jacket. Accidents happen in an instant. Make it a habit. Always wear a life jacket.
According to 2021 U.S. Coast Guard statistics:
Drowning was the reported cause of death in 81 percent of all boating fatalities
Of those, 83 percent were reported as not wearing their life jackets
Two-thirds of drowning victims are good swimmers
Safety on the water is everyone’s responsibility. Explore the ways you can get involved with the Safe Boating Campaign. Safety starts with you.
The Safe Boating Campaign is led by the National Safe Boating Council, a leading catalyst for recreational boating safety through education, outreach and training, with support from boating safety advocates round the world. The campaign offers educational information and free resources to support local boating safety outreach efforts. It is produced under a grant from the Sports Fish Restoration and Boating Trust Fund, administered by the U.S. Coast Guard.
Worldwide Events
Wear Your Life Jacket at Work Day: May 19, 2023
National Safe Boating Week: May 20-26, 2023
Ready, Set, Wear It: Dates Vary by Local Partners