(Editorial - Graphic Illustration - MetroCreativeConnection)

Most Mid-Ohio Valley residents can feel it in the air. Boating season is upon us. But before it reaches its summer peak, the West Virginia Department of Natural Resources is using this National Safe Boating Week to remind boaters (and their passengers) of safe boating practices — in particular, the importance of wearing life jackets.

Maybe you haven’t gotten the boat out of storage yet. Maybe you’re just now putting it through its annual safety inspection and getting it all clean and tuned up. Whatever stage you’re in, now is a good time to stock up on the most up-to-date, U.S. Coast Guard approved life jackets so you can be sure you and all possible passengers are safe — and following the law.

” …The reality is (life jackets) save lives,” said Natural Resources Police Captain Warren Goodson, who oversees the WVDNR’s boating education program. “New life jackets are more comfortable, lightweight and stylish than the bulky orange style most boaters are familiar with.”

U.S. Coast Guard data shows drowning was the cause of approximately 75% of boating fatalities in 2024; and 87% of those who drowned were not wearing life jackets.

Still not worried? Well, if the safety of yourself and your passengers is not a concern, there’s also the matter of remaining in compliance with state life jacket laws. According to the DNR, “Every person aboard a boat must have a properly sized U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket that is readily accessible and in good condition. Children under 13 must wear a life jacket while the boat is underway, unless they are below deck or in an enclosed cabin.”

There. Now you cannot claim you were unaware.

Have fun safely on your boat this summer. Be sure to complete the required boater education course, enforce life jacket rules, stay focused and sober if you are operating the boat, don’t speed, and use a little common sense.

Remember, the idea is to relax and have fun. That’s a lot easier to do when you know you’ve done everything you can to stay safe.