SANTA FE — This Labor Day Weekend thousands of people will be traveling to one or more of New Mexico's state parks to soak up the last sun-filled days of summer and cool off in the state’s many waterways. Whether you’re boating, paddling, tubing, or swimming, remember -- wearing a properly fitted life jacket can save a life!
“Lakes and rivers have unseen dangers that can cause drownings," New Mexico State Park's Director Toby Velasquez said. "Water currents can sweep swimmers away and tire them out, water depth can suddenly change, and underwater hazards can trap you. Wearing a life jacket is a reliable way to prevent these hazards from turning a fun and memorable day into a tragic one. The main purpose of a life jacket is to prevent drowning, provide the opportunity to self-rescue, or to give a person time to be rescued.”
In 2023, according to the U.S. Coast Guard, 87% of drowning victims in recreational boating accidents were not wearing life jackets. The U.S. Coast Guard estimates that life jackets could have saved the lives of more than 80% of people who die while boating. These statistics highlight the importance of wearing life jackets and the need for ongoing efforts to promote their use to save lives on the water.
State law requires motorboat operators born on or after Jan. 1, 1989, to take and pass a boating safety education course. The course certificate is good for life and meets the requirements for boating safety education in many other states. It can also save people money on their boat insurance! Courses are available online anytime at emnrd.nm.gov, and New Mexico State Parks offers free in-person classes statewide.
Don’t have a life jacket? Ask a Park Ranger about the life jacket loaner program before taking the plunge! For more information, go to emnrd.nm.gov and click on the Boating in New Mexico tab. The 35 New Mexico State Parks can be found in 25 of 33 counties.
