OLYMPIA, Wash. – Washington State Parks announced on Tuesday that Governor Jay Inslee issued a proclamation declaring that the week of July 22 to 28 is Paddle Safe Week, a statewide effort to improve paddle sport safety.
A press release states that paddlers represent 55 percent of all statewide recreational boating fatalities over the last five years, with low life jacket wear rates and lack of safety education contributing to the deaths.
“Paddle Safe Week is a great opportunity to help reduce paddle sports-related fatalities by sharing resources and educating the community on how to recreate safely,” said Boating Program Manager Rob Sendak. “Paddlers should know that kayaks, canoes and stand-up paddleboards are subject to boating laws and regulations.”
Washington State Parks says the most important paddle safety tip is to always wear a life jacket when on the water. The State requires that all vessels must have at least one Coast Guard-approved life jacket for each person on board.
Paddle Safe Week also recommends the following:
Get educated on paddle safetyBring a SUP leash to stay tethered to paddleboardsCarry essentials for safety, emergency communications and comfortCheck the weatherProtect against cold water shock with a life jacketFile a float plan and study the intended routePaddle with a groupAvoid alcohol and drugsLearn how to self-rescueLabel your paddlecraftBe visible to others with bright colors or reflective tape
More information can be found on the Washington State Parks website.
