Boating safety tips for Labor Day weekend emphasized

CLEARWATER, Fla., Sept. 4, 2026 /CourierPR/ -- On Labor Day weekend, boating enthusiasts are reminded to prioritize safety as they celebrate the end of summer on the water. The National Safe Boating Council, through its Safe Boating Campaign, has issued key tips to ensure responsible and safe boating practices.

Peg Phillips, executive director of the National Safe Boating Council, emphasized, "Labor Day weekend is a wonderful time to enjoy the water, but safety must always come first."

Wearing a life jacket is paramount. Phillips stressed, "Don't wait to put on a life jacket in an emergency. Always wear it!" She noted that 87% of drowning victims in recreational boating incidents were not wearing a life jacket, and 76% of all boating fatalities were due to drowning. The 2024 U.S. Coast Guard Recreational Boating Statistics provided these sobering figures.

Another critical safety measure is using an engine cut-off switch, which can prevent propeller injuries and deaths. The same statistics revealed that there were 169 propeller accidents, resulting in 30 deaths and 158 injuries. Phillips highlighted, "Using an engine cut-off switch is a proven lifesaving device that can help change these statistics."

For paddlers, safety tips are equally important. The 2024 statistics indicated an increase in paddlecraft deaths, with canoes up 4.5%, kayaks up 16%, and standup paddleboards up 5%.

Boating under the influence remains a leading factor in recreational boating deaths. Alcohol use can impair judgment, reduce balance, and decrease coordination. Phillips advised, "Never boat under the influence, and always designate a sober skipper."

Additional safety measures include assigning a lookout, checking equipment, filing a float plan, watching the weather, being aware of surroundings, and traveling at safe speeds. Phillips suggested, "Be extra vigilant while boating this holiday weekend, and assign a lookout to watch for others on the water and keep a close eye on children."

The campaign also encourages boaters to conduct a free vessel safety check with local U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary or U.S. Power Squadrons. Other essential tips include having multiple communication devices that work in water, such as VHF radios, emergency locator beacons, satellite phones, and cell phones with GPS technology.

Phillips concluded, "Always check the forecast before departing and frequently during the excursion. Follow local weather advisories and be aware of your surroundings."

The Safe Boating Campaign, funded by the Sport Fish Restoration and Boating Trust Fund and administered by the U.S. Coast Guard, offers a range of free and paid resources for boating safety education. More information can be found at www.safeboatingcampaign.com.

Established in 1958, the National Safe Boating Council continues to lead efforts in promoting safer boating through education and training. For further details on their programs and professional development opportunities, visit www.safeboatingcouncil.org.