National Safe Boating Week will be held from May 17-23, 2025, encouraging all boaters to brush up on boating safety skills and prepare for the boating season. This observance week is the annual kick-off of the Safe Boating Campaign, a global awareness effort that inspires boaters to make the most of their boating adventure by being responsible.
U.S. Coast Guard statistics show that drowning was the reported cause of death in three out of every four recreational boating fatalities, and that 87 percent of those who drowned were not wearing life jackets.
There are a variety of life jacket options for boaters to choose from. When selecting a life jacket, a boater should check that it is U.S. Coast Guard approved, appropriate for the water activity, and fits properly.
The National Safe Boating Council recommends these tips for boaters:
- Take a boating safety course. Gain valuable knowledge and on-water experience in a boating safety course with many options for novice to experienced boaters.
- Check equipment. Schedule a free vessel safety check with local U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary or U.S. Power Squadrons to make sure all essential equipment is present, working and in good condition.
- Create a float plan. Always let someone on shore know the trip itinerary, including operator and passenger information, boat description and registration, and communication equipment on board before you leave the
dock. - Wear a life jacket. Make sure everyone wears a life jacket – every time. A stowed life jacket is of no use in an emergency.
- Use an engine cut-off switch – it’s the law. An engine cut-off switch is a proven safety device to stop a powerboat engine should the operator unexpectedly fall overboard.
- Monitor the weather. Always check the forecast before departing on the water and frequently during the excursion. Weather conditions can change abruptly, so make sure to prepare.
- Maintain a proper lookout. Operator inattention is the leading known primary contributing factor of boating accidents. Stay alert and focused at all times.
- Know where you’re going and travel at safe speeds. Be familiar with the area, local boating speed zones, and always travel at a safe speed.
- Never boat under the influence. Boating under the influence is the leading known contributing factor in boating fatalities. Always designate a sober skipper.
- Keep in touch. Have more than one communication device that works when wet. VHF radios, emergency locator beacons, satellite phones, and cell phones can all be important devices in an emergency.
The Safe Boating Campaign is produced under a grant from the Sport Fish Restoration and Boating Trust Fund, administered by the U.S. Coast Guard. The campaign offers a variety of free and paid resources to support local boating safety education efforts.
Learn more at www.safeboatingcampaign.com.