MADISON, Wis. – The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources reminds anyone hitting the water this weekend to wear a life jacket.
Winds and summer-like temperatures are in the forecast for Saturday, making the water more inviting than ever after weeks of winter. While Saturday’s temperatures may flirt with summer, the water is cold and rough, and life jackets are a must before you shove from the shore for the year’s first paddle.
“Safety is an important part of water fun. Most drowning victims on Wisconsin waterbodies were not wearing life jackets,” said DNR Lt. Darren Kuhn, DNR Boating Law Administrator. “Putting safety first by wearing a life jacket and having respect for the water are two important things to remember when going to any Wisconsin river and lake to enjoy warm spring days.”
Nearly 80% of last year’s 25 boating fatality victims were not wearing life jackets. Of those, 91% were male, with an average age of 46.
The department does not track all drownings – only those fatalities linked to the use of a recreational activity item, such as a boat, kayak or canoe. Current and past boating incident reports are available on the DNR website.
“Wardens have responded to numerous drowning deaths only to find a life jacket stuffed inside a kayak or floating near the capsized canoe,” Kuhn said. “Deaths from drowning are preventable. Putting on a life jacket before wading, playing along shores or getting in a boat gets you ready to focus on the fun.”
Today’s life jackets are much more comfortable, lightweight and stylish. There are innovative options, such as inflatable life jackets, allowing mobility and flexibility for boating, fishing, paddling or hunting, and they are much cooler in the warmer weather.
Statistics show boaters who wear life jackets and take boater safety courses are most likely to stay safe on Wisconsin waters. Always follow the basic safety tips below and enjoy Wisconsin’s great lakes and rivers with family and friends.
For questions or assistance, please contact: Colin Schmies at [email protected] or 608-206-0476