To help promote National Safe Boating Week, the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources (WVDNR) in partnership with its Law Enforcement Section, is reminding boaters to prepare for summer adventures on the water by brushing up on boating safety skills.

National Safe Boating Week, observed May 17–23, marks the start of the summer boating season and promotes the Safe Boating Campaign, a global initiative funded by the Sport Fish Restoration and Boating Trust Fund and administered by the U.S. Coast Guard. The campaign encourages boaters to prioritize safety every time they’re on the water.

“We want everyone to enjoy our beautiful lakes and rivers, but that means wearing life jackets, staying sober and knowing the rules,” said WVDNR Director Brett McMillion. “Boating regulations aren’t just tips — they’re responsibilities that help keep every boater safe.”

Natural Resources Police will be increasing patrols during National Safe Boating Week, which includes the Memorial Day weekend, to enforce boating under the influence laws and ensure compliance with life jacket regulations.

One of the most common issues Natural Resources Police encounter during the boating season is compliance with the state’s life jacket laws. Under West Virginia law, every person aboard a boat must have a properly sized U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket that is readily accessible and in good condition. Children under 13 must wear a life jacket while the boat is underway, unless they are below deck or in an enclosed cabin.

“There are a lot of myths about life jackets, but the reality is they save lives — but only when worn,” said Natural Resources Police Captain Warren Goodson, who oversees the WVDNR’s Boating Education Program.

According to the U.S. Coast Guard, drowning is the reported cause of death in nearly 80% of recreational boating fatalities, and 87% of those victims were not wearing life jackets.

West Virginia law also requires anyone born on or after Dec. 31, 1986, to complete a boater education course approved by the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators before operating a motorboat. To learn more about boating rules and laws, safe boating practices and the WVDNR’s boater education program, visit WVdnr.gov/boating.