DENVER — People in Colorado are getting their boats ready for the unofficial start of summer. Before going out, CPW is encouraging everyone to follow a series of tips to keep you safe.
“Even though temperatures outside may feel warmer, the water temperature is still very cold and hasn’t had the chance to heat up yet, so it’s often a bit colder than the air, so you have to remember that if you’re going in the water, it can be a little bit of a shock to your system," said Kara Van Hoose with Colorado Parks and Wildlife.
If you plan to be out on the water during the summer or Fourth of July holiday weekend, make sure you have a life jacket for yourself as well as everyone on the boat.
“We have seen people who have the lifejackets, just strapped to their board. Not wearing the lifejacket doesn’t do any good," said Van Hoose. "So, even if you say you’re following the law, you aren’t necessarily being the safest you can be. We always recommend that people wear their lifejackets whether you’re on the boat, paddleboard, kayak, wear your lifejackets because if you go in the water and you get shocked, your system can freeze up."
According to CPW, last year there were 32 water related deaths. This year, officials have responded to 8 water related deaths in Colorado, six of those are tied to recreation.
“Don’t be out there by yourself, don’t take the risk, and know your own limitations," said Van Hoose.
Before heading out on the water, be sure to:
- Check your equipment
- Wear the proper life vest
- Attend a boating course
- Get a safety inspection on your boat
- Review navigation techniques
- Learn what to do in the event of an incident
A new law goes into effect on June 1, changing the age requirements to operate a motorboat. The new law prohibits the operation of a motorboat, by a person younger than 18 years old. A person who is at least 14 years old but less than 18 may operate a motorboat if the person has completed a boating safety course approved by CPW and a boating safety certificate issued by the boating safety course provider.
This boating age law does not apply to non-motorized vessels such as kayaks, canoes, and stand-up paddleboards, but life jacket requirements still apply.
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