The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has issued a timely reminder for boaters to prioritize safety as Labor Day weekend approaches. With the expectation of favorable weather, more individuals are anticipated to take to the water, prompting officials to emphasize the importance of life jackets, sobriety, and other safety measures.
Lieutenant John Sinclair, the boating law administrator, highlighted the potential for increased water activity due to the forecasted good weather. “We just want people to do it safely,” he told WPR, indicating the importance of adherence to safety guidelines.
Tragically, this year has already seen 22 fatalities from boat-related drownings in Wisconsin, including a devastating incident on Geneva Lake in July that took the lives of three children. Although this number is still below the 28 boating deaths recorded in 2023, it represents a nearly 50% increase from previous years.
Understanding Drowning Data Challenges
Dave Benjamin, a water safety advocate, points out the difficulties in compiling comprehensive data on drowning incidents. His non-profit organization, the Great Lakes Surf Rescue Project, strives to fill this gap by tracking drowning statistics. Since 2010, they have recorded 1,473 drownings in the Great Lakes, with an average of 88 per year.
Benjamin stresses the importance of having these statistics to target prevention efforts effectively. “Having the statistics to look at who’s drowning most, when, where, and why can help us focus our efforts,” he stated.
The Wisconsin DNR does not include non-boat-related drownings in their data, while the state’s Department of Health Services only provides real-time data for emergency department visits related to drowning. In 2024, there were 72 unintentional drowning deaths statewide.
The National Weather Service does track drownings in surf zones, yet Benjamin notes that only about 25% of Great Lakes drownings are attributed to dangerous currents. The majority occur under seemingly calm conditions, where individuals venture too far from shore or encounter difficulties while using inflatable devices.
Critical Safety Measures
Sinclair emphasizes the need for life jackets, noting their role in saving lives despite not being a foolproof solution. Wisconsin stands out as one of only two states without a law requiring children to wear life jackets on boats, although federal law mandates such safety measures on federal waterways.
Alcohol and drugs are frequently contributing factors in boating incidents. “Boating and alcohol, boating and drugs don’t mix,” Sinclair warned, underscoring the impairments these substances cause.
The DNR continues to advocate for safety, encouraging boaters to remain vigilant throughout the holiday and beyond. As Sinclair remarked, “Maybe you had a safe boating season or swimming season all summer, but that doesn’t mean we should be any more casual at the end of summer here.”
