RHINELANDER, WI (WSAU-WXPR) — After the COVID-19 pandemic drove more people to outdoor recreation last year, DNR officials have reported an uptick in the number of boating deaths.
DNR Boating Law Administrator Lt. Darren Kuhn tells WXPR Radio that although it may seem like a calm recreational activity, operating a boat requires continual attention and focus.
“Remember even though boating is a sport and meant to be fun, there’s still those safety factors. Wear your life jacket please. Take a boater safety class. Only operate as fast as you can safely operate,” he said.
Much like driving a car, boating means being able to process changes in surroundings on short notice. “Be mindful of your surroundings. Things can change in a matter of seconds and if you’re not prepared, tragedy can happen,” he adds.
There were 22 boating deaths in Wisconsin last year, which officials say is a high number. Around 80% of those deaths were drowning incidents which can often be prevented by wearing a life jacket.
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