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National Safe Boating Week 2026: Preparing for Safe Adventures on the Water

As the summer boating season approaches, beginning May 16–22, 2026, boaters are encouraged to celebrate National Safe Boating Week by refreshing their understanding of essential boating safety measures. This annual event serves as a reminder of the importance of responsible boating practices and supports a global initiative to ensure safe and enjoyable experiences on the water, especially ahead of the busy Memorial Day weekend.

Captain Peg Phillips, the executive director of the National Safe Boating Council, points out that this week is the ideal moment for boat enthusiasts to gear up for an exciting and safe time on the water. "By taking a few simple steps now—like checking equipment, wearing a life jacket, and enrolling in a safety course—boaters can help ensure every outing is a safe one," she advises.

Statistics from the U.S. Coast Guard indicate some alarming realities: drowning accounted for 76 percent of recreational boating fatalities, with 87 percent of those who drowned not wearing life jackets in 2024. Knowing how to select a life jacket is vital for every boater. Make sure that the life jacket is approved by the U.S. Coast Guard, is suitable for the type of water sports involved, and fits correctly.

Daily Safety Tips for National Safe Boating Week

The National Safe Boating Council advocates for daily safety tips throughout National Safe Boating Week:

• - May 16: Always wear a life jacket. This includes ensuring that everyone on board puts on their jacket each time they are on the water. Remember, a stowed life jacket cannot save anyone in an emergency.
• - May 17: Utilize the engine cut-off switch. This essential safety device is not only a legal requirement but also a proven method to stop a powerboat's engine if the operator unexpectedly falls overboard.
• - May 18: File a float plan. It's critical to inform someone on shore about your trip details—this includes passenger information, boat type, registration, and communication devices before leaving the dock.
• - May 19: Do not operate a boat under the influence. Alcohol accounted for 20% of recreational boating deaths in 2024 where cause was known. Always designate a sober skipper.
• - May 20: Prepare for unexpected situations by checking local weather forecasts before and throughout the excursion.
• - May 21: Take a safe boating course. Enhancing knowledge and skills through a boating safety course will prove beneficial for both novice and experienced boaters.
• - May 22: Stay attentive. Awareness of the environment around you at all times is crucial. The leading causes of boating incidents in 2024 were operator inattention and improper lookout.

Additional Safety Recommendations

Aside from the daily tips, the National Safe Boating Council also suggests other vital safety measures:

• - Familiarize yourself with your travel route and adhere to speed regulations. Ensure you’re aware of local boating speed zones and maintain a safe speed at all times.
• - Keep communication open during your outing. Equip yourself with multiple communication devices that remain functional when wet, such as VHF radios, emergency locator beacons, satellite phones, and cell phones with GPS capabilities.
• - Check your equipment. Perform a free vessel safety check through the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary or U.S. Power Squadrons to confirm that all essential gear is onboard, operational, and in good condition.

The Safe Boating Campaign is made possible by a grant from the Sport Fish Restoration and Boating Trust Fund, managed by the U.S. Coast Guard. They provide a wealth of free and paid resources to assist local efforts in boating safety education. For more, visit safeboatingcampaign.com.

About the National Safe Boating Council

Since its inception in 1958, the National Safe Boating Council has been at the forefront of promoting safer boating through education, outreach, and training. For further information regarding their programs and professional development opportunities, please visit safeboatingcouncil.org.