Summertime generally means water time! Going to the lake for boating, jet-skiing, or kayaking is a great way to spend the hot summer days, but as with most activities boating does bring risk.
According to the data, there were 4,168 boating accidents that resulted in 613 deaths and 2,559 injuries in 2019 in the US. 79% of boating fatalities were drownings while 86% of those were not wearing life jackets. Alcohol was the leading known contributing factor where the primary cause was known at 23% of deaths. Also in 2019 property damage totaled about $55 million! Open motorboats made up 48% of the fatalities, kayaks 14%, and canoes at 8%, you should always be aware of your surroundings and wear a life jacket. Accidents happen for a variety of reasons but the top five are the operator not paying attention or their inexperience, mechanical failure, improper lookout, excessive speeding, and of course the operator being intoxicated.
Be safe and aware when out on boats, jet-skis, and other watercraft. Wear a life jacket and have a sober, experienced operator in control. It is highly suggested that before operating a boat you take a nationally approved boating safety course. And of course make sure to have all watercraft insured as well!
Click here for more boating safety tips.
According to the data, there were 4,168 boating accidents that resulted in 613 deaths and 2,559 injuries in 2019 in the US. 79% of boating fatalities were drownings while 86% of those were not wearing life jackets. Alcohol was the leading known contributing factor where the primary cause was known at 23% of deaths. Also in 2019 property damage totaled about $55 million! Open motorboats made up 48% of the fatalities, kayaks 14%, and canoes at 8%, you should always be aware of your surroundings and wear a life jacket. Accidents happen for a variety of reasons but the top five are the operator not paying attention or their inexperience, mechanical failure, improper lookout, excessive speeding, and of course the operator being intoxicated.
Be safe and aware when out on boats, jet-skis, and other watercraft. Wear a life jacket and have a sober, experienced operator in control. It is highly suggested that before operating a boat you take a nationally approved boating safety course. And of course make sure to have all watercraft insured as well!
Click here for more boating safety tips.
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