The Missouri State Highway Patrol would like to stress the importance of safe boating and make the public aware of National Safe Boating Week, which takes place May 18-24, 2024. National Safe Boating Week is purposefully scheduled just prior to Memorial Day weekend, which many people consider the kickoff to the boating season.

Weather, time, and other elements may affect the readiness of your boat. Before taking that inaugural 2024 summer boat cruise, boaters are encouraged to make time for a thorough inspection of their boat. The Patrol’s marine operations troopers make boating safety a priority and are available, at your request, to inspect the required equipment on your boat to make sure you’re in compliance with state law.

In addition to an inspection, boaters should familiarize themselves with Missouri laws regarding boat operation and traditional navigational rules. Missouri law requires everyone born after January 1, 1984, who operates a vessel on Missouri lakes to possess a National Association of Sate Boating Law Administrators (NASBLA) approved boating safety identification card. This includes those operating a personal watercraft. When boaters understand and obey the law, and vessels are in good operating order, everyone’s experience becomes safer.

A drowning can occur quickly, with little or no sign the victim is struggling. Preliminary statistics indicate there were 28 drownings in Missouri in 2023. Each situation is unique and tragic, and many of these incidents are preventable. A life jacket could have saved these people’s lives.

When you’re boating, a life jacket for everyone on board is a must! Children under seven years old are required to wear a personal flotation device while in a boat, but you are never too old to wear a life jacket! Although not required by law, children playing along the shoreline or on a dock should wear a life jacket. Life jackets save lives, please wear yours!

It is important for each boat operator to know the capabilities of their boat. Reducing your speed in unfamiliar areas and being aware of unusual water conditions respective to the size and type of boat you operate are just a couple of environmental considerations.

Extended time in the sun and the constant motion of the water effects every vessel operator. It's important to recognize the dangers of boater fatigue. Stay alert while enjoying Missouri's lakes and rivers. Additionally, if you combine alcohol with boater fatigue your reaction time and thought process will be much slower. Designate a sober captain if you choose to consume alcohol.

In 2023, there were 159 boating crashes in Missouri. Included in those crashes were 89 injuries and six fatalities.

KPGZ News - Brian Watts contributed to this story