Record Boating Deaths, Above Average Drownings Prompt DNR Warning

MINNESOTA – Minnesota officials are warning residents of the dangers of open-water season following a deadly few weeks.

As of Wednesday, nine people have died due to boating accidents and a higher than average number of people have drowned at beaches and swimming pools, according to the Department of Natural Resources.

The number of people killed in boating accidents at this point in the year is the highest it has been in more than a decade.

“There are too many families who won’t be seeing their loved ones again,” Lt. Adam Block, boating law administrator for the DNR Enforcement Division, said in a prepared statement. “It’s up to everyone who heads for the water to double-down on safety and prevent what should be a fun experience from turning tragic.”

According to officials, those who have drowned this year span the age, gender and swimming ability spectrum.

Officials offer the following tips for water safety this season:

• All children and adults should wear a life jacket anytime they're around water.
• Avoid alcohol, as 40 percent of boating fatalities included alcohol.
• Designate a "water watcher" who will focus only on watching the water to ensure everyone is safe.
• Wade feet-first into the water to avoid jumping into an area where the current, depth and other conditions are unknown.
• Supervise children while they're near or in the water.
• Swim only in designated swimming areas.

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