14-05-2025
Boating safety tips with New Mexico State Parks Division
NEW MEXICO (KRQE) – With National Safe Boating Week coming up, the New Mexico State Parks Division is reminding visitors to stay safe on the water. Safe Boating Week is May 18 – 24, ahead of Memorial Day Weekend, a traditionally busy weekend on New Mexico's waters.
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As part of the safety week, officials stress the importance of wearing a lifejacket as about 75% of people who drown in boating incidents are not wearing a life jacket, according to the U.S. Coast Guard. 'Wearing a life jacket is a simple step that saves lives. Whether you're on a kayak, sailboat or motorboat, being prepared makes all the difference,' State Parks Division Director Toby Velasquez said in a release. As of January 1, 2025 State Parks Division changed its boating rules, requiring everyone engaged in any type of boating activity in New Mexico to wear a U.S. Coast Guard approved life jacket.
State Parks boating safety tips:
Always wear a properly fitted, U.S. Coast Guard approved life jacket
Designate a sober boat operator
Prepare, plan, and gear up for inclement weather
File a float plan and tell someone where you will be
Complete a boating safety course as required if you were born on or after Jan. 1, 1989
Children under 13 must wear life jackets while on the deck of a moving vessel
For more information on State Parks Division and boating education in New Mexico, click here.
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