The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources is reminding boaters to make safety a top priority this Labor Day weekend, which is often one of the busiest boating weekends of the year.
The DNR says boaters should check their safety equipment, review boating laws and be aware of other people using the water.
So far in 2026, Wisconsin conservation wardens and local public safety partners have investigated 21 fatal boating incidents. In most cases, victims were not wearing life jackets.
The DNR says wearing a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket is the single most effective way to prevent drowning. Boaters are also reminded to stay sober, maintain a safe speed, minimize distractions and know their limits when it comes to weather, water conditions and physical ability.
Wisconsin boating safety certification is required for operators born on or after January 1st, 1989, and the DNR says a boating safety course can be a good refresher for all boaters.
Before leaving the water, boaters are also reminded to drain water from live wells, ballast tanks and bilges and remove aquatic vegetation from boats and trailers to help prevent the spread of invasive species.
More boating safety information is available through the Wisconsin DNR.
No responses yet