May Highlights Safe Boating

The North Dakota Game and Fish Department recognizes National Safe Boating Week, May 16-22, an annual boating safety public awareness campaign that serves to educate boaters and water users heading into summer.

A boat should have enough U.S. Coast Guard approved wearable life jackets on board for all passengers. North Dakota law requires all children ages 10 and younger to wear a personal flotation device while in boats less than 27 feet in length. The law also requires all personal watercraft users to wear a life jacket, as well as anyone towed on skis, tubes, boards or other similar devices.

However, state law allows an individual engaged in barefoot skiing or surfing to wear a wet suit (a life preserver must be on board the towing vessel), and a person who is at least 16 years of age can windsurf or boardsail without wearing a PFD. Water users should make sure to wear life jackets of the appropriate size and in good condition. 

Coast Guard statistics show that drowning was the reported cause of death in three out of every four recreational boating fatalities in 2024, and that 87% of those who drowned were not wearing life jackets.

It is also important children wear a PFD while swimming. Swimmers should know the water’s depth, as serious injuries can occur from diving. Large objects hidden below the water’s surface can lead to significant injury.

North Dakota boaters are also reminded that Class A and Class 1 vessels are required to have one hand, mouth or power-operated whistle audible for at least one-half mile. This regulation also applies to kayaks, canoes, paddleboards and jet skis. 

Regulations to help ensure safe boating this summer are found in the North Dakota Boat and Water Safety Guide.