By Trish Svoboda

This year, a multitude of boats – nearly 100 different types including kayaks, canoes, and motorboats – will see Kansans making the most of their time on the water. Governor Laura Kelly has officially designated May 18-24 as Safe Boating Week in Kansas. In partnership with Safe Kids Kansas, the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, and the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks, the emphasis is on reminding families to go the extra mile in ensuring children’s safety during water activities.

Safe Boating Week, an annual educational initiative managed by the National Safe Boating Council, is scheduled for the week leading up to Memorial Day. The campaign’s goal is to promote safety and responsible boating practices.

Drowning ranks as the third highest cause of accidental injury-related fatalities among children in Kansas. The chances of surviving a boating mishap increase by 80 percent when a life jacket is worn. In the year 2022, it was reported that 75 percent of all fatal boating accident victims in the U.S. succumbed to drowning, and 85 percent of these victims were not wearing a life jacket. As we observe National Safe Boating Week, it’s crucial to remind all parents about the simple yet effective measures they can take to ensure their children’s safety on a boat, starting with the essential practice of wearing life jackets.