Memorial Day weekend marks the unofficial start of the summer boating season and the Safe Boating Campaign has all the resources you need to have an enjoyable and safe boating season. The National Safe Boating Council urges boaters to prioritize safety while enjoying time on the water this weekend and all season long.
According to the latest U.S. Coast Guard statistics, drowning remains the leading cause of death in recreational boating fatalities, with 87 percent of drowning victims not wearing a life jacket.
There are many U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets designed for various activities, including boating, fishing, paddling, and hunting. Find a life jacket style that you like and fits comfortably, so you’ll confidently wear it anytime you’re recreating on the water.
“Wearing a life jacket is the easiest way to protect yourself and your passengers. An incident can happen so fast, and a stowed life jacket is too far away to save a life. Inflatable life jackets and other new designs are comfortable, so there is no excuse for not wearing one!” said Peg Phillips, executive director of the National Safe Boating Council.
The Safe Boating Campaign shares these essential safety tips to ensure a safe and enjoyable Memorial Day weekend on the water:
- Always wear a life jacket. Ensure everyone on board is wearing a properly fitted U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket. New styles offer greater comfort and flexibility.
- Check Equipment: Make sure all safety gear is on board and in proper working condition.
- File a Float Plan: Let a trusted friend or family member know your boating plans including your launch location, vessel description, and expected return time.
- Use an Engine Cut-Off Switch: This proven lifesaving device stops the boat’s engine if the operator unexpectedly falls overboard, or is displaced from the helm.
- Monitor the weather. Check the weather forecast before departing and monitor the weather consistently while you’re recreating for changing conditions.
- Be Aware of Surroundings: According to the latest U.S. Coast Guard statistics, operator inattention and improper lookout are the top two primary contributing factors in boating incidents. Always stay focused and alert while operating a vessel.
- Follow Speed Regulations: Know your local boating speed zones and always travel at a safe speed.
- Never Boat Under the Influence: Alcohol use continues to be the leading known contributing factor in fatal boating accidents. Boating sober is the law and the responsible thing to do.
- Communication is Key: Keep communication devices like cell phones, satellite phones, EPIRBs, personal locator beacons, or VHF radios on hand in case of emergency. Test them regularly and make sure they are in proper working order.
Let’s make Memorial Day Weekend 2025 one to remember. Stay safe and boat responsibly!
The Safe Boating Campaign is produced under a grant from the Sport Fish Restoration and Boating Trust Fund and administered by the U.S. Coast Guard. For more boating safety tips and to follow the campaign on social media, please visit www.safeboatingcampaign.com.