Recreational Boating Safety Program announces focus on life jacket wear while paddling

The Recreational Boating Safety Program in Washington State is addressing the alarming rise in paddlesport-related fatalities by launching a campaign centered on life jacket use. Recent statistics reveal that 61% of boating fatalities from 2023-2024 involved paddlesports, with a staggering 18 of 22 victims not wearing a life jacket at the time of their accidents. To combat this trend, the program plans to kick off a new awareness campaign in 2025, which will complement the established Paddle Safe Week. A survey will be conducted to assess paddlers' safety habits, providing valuable data to improve education and outreach efforts. Furthermore, the program continues its hands-on training initiative, which has successfully taught kayaking safety skills to over 1,175 children, particularly in underserved communities.

Derek VanDyke, a Recreational Safety Education Coordinator, highlights the legal requirement to carry a life jacket, stressing that mere possession is not enough; it must be worn to ensure safety. As the campaign unfolds, paddlers of all ages are encouraged to model safe behaviors and advocate for life jacket use within their communities. The initiative aims to foster a culture of safety, ensuring that paddling remains an enjoyable and secure activity for everyone.