friends taking a photo on a boat in a lake

State Parks Release New PSA Following Recent Drownings, Incidents

June 24, 2019
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Boating season is here, and with the fun in the sun comes the dangers present when venturing out onto the water. Within the last month, Utah has seen an increase in boating-related incidents. To combat this, the Utah Division of Parks and Recreation has chosen to release a new #NobodyIsInvincible PSA earlier than originally planned.

While summer weather may have just begun, Utah has already experienced six boating-related fatalities this year. That number is two-thirds last year’s total. This large of a number so soon into the boating season is concerning.

Regardless of the weather conditions or boat size, the truth is that 80% of Utah’s boating-related fatalities involved people not wearing life jackets. While the law may only require boaters to have a life jacket available, having one properly fastened during activities can make a world of difference should something happen.

Our goal through the Nobody is Invincible campaign has been to raise awareness about the importance of wearing a life jacket at all times.

When thinking of the scene of a boating accident, the image brought to mind is often one of dark skies, big boats, and high waves. This is not the case. The majority of boating fatalities take place on smaller sized boats under 21 feet, with light wind, and on waves smaller than two feet. Quite the contrary to what boaters often consider hazardous.

Disaster can strike when you least expect it. Be ready and be prepared. Remember, nobody is invincible.

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