With Memorial Day signaling the beginning of summer, many Iowans will be out on the water today, as well as the next several months. For those who plan to spend time boating, fishing, or participating in any water-related activities, staying safe should be a top priority.

The state of Iowa has more than 231,000 registered boats. In 2022, there were 28 reported boating incidents on Iowa waters: seven of those were personal injury; 17 involved property damage, and four resulted in fatalities. Of the four fatalities, one involved alcohol as a contributing factor. Already this month, one fatality has been reported on the water after a drowning occurred on West Okoboji Lake.

Park Ranger at Lake Darling State Park, Zach Haworth tells KCII the surefire way to minimize danger while on the water. “The biggest, most important one is to wear that life jacket. Whether you’re stand-up paddle-boarding, or kayaking, or riding in the boat or canoe, having that life jacket accessible is one thing, but wearing it is a completely different thing. A life jacket is the number one thing that can prevent tragedy from occurring.”

Additional boating tips for the season include checking trailer lights, wheel bearings, and the hitch before leaving the house, checking for open ramps or water hazards, avoiding alcohol consumption while operating a boat, and letting a friend know your destination and expected time of return.

For more information, or access to boater education programs, click here.