Water Safety Tips for Labor Day Weekend in Montana

Missoula, MT (KGVO-AM News) - Summer is quickly coming to an end and Labor Day Weekend might be your last chance to hit the water before fall. Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks want to remind folks that they need to share the water with other boaters. More than 100,000 boats were registered last year and that doesn’t include nonmotorized ones. 

Boating safety is always important to remember, but FWP has some tips to help make sure your Labor Day boating adventure is successful and safe.  

Never Drink and Operate a Boat   

Alcohol use is the leading known contributing factor in fatal boating accidents. Where the primary cause was known, alcohol was listed as the leading factor in 17 percent of deaths.  It is imperative that you have a designated sober driver for your boat. 

Always Wear a Lifejacket  

According to U.S. Coast Guard statistics, where the cause of death was known, 87 percent of drowning victims in recreational boating accidents were not wearing a lifejacket in 2023. FWP says kids 12 and under are legally required to wear a lifejacket at all times while the boat is in motion. Not all lifejackets are legit. Make sure your lifejacket has a label that says U.S. Coast Guard Approved. 

All Boats Can be Dangerous  

Based on Montana’s Boating Accident Report Database, between 70 and 75 percent of Montana boating fatalities occur on nonmotorized watercraft. These include rafts, kayaks, canoes, stand-up paddleboards, and row boats. According to FWP, you are legally required to have a lifejacket readily accessible while using these vessels.  

Even if you are using a non-motorized watercraft, it is still highly recommended that you wear your lifejacket. FWP mentioned that four out of five boaters who drowned were using vessels less than 21 feet in length.   

READ MORE: Montana FWP Explains Proper Boating Etiquette

Pay Attention  

Finally, FWP mentioned that the top five primary contributing factors in accidents are operator inattention, improper lookout, operator inexperience, excessive speed, and machinery failure.  

For more boating safety information, visit here.