Clearwater, Fla. – September 08, 2026 -- The National Safe Boating Council is urging boaters heading onto the water this Labor Day weekend to wear life jackets and use engine cut-off switches, citing federal data showing drowning as the leading cause of boating deaths.
Drowning caused 76% of boating fatalities in 2024
According to the 2024 U.S. Coast Guard Recreational Boating Statistics, drowning was the reported cause of death in 76% of all boating fatalities that year. Of those drowning victims, 87% were not wearing a life jacket at the time of the incident.
"Labor Day weekend is a wonderful time to celebrate the close of summer on the water, but safety must come first," said Peg Phillips, executive director of the National Safe Boating Council. She urged boaters to wear a life jacket, use an engine cut-off switch, and never operate a vessel under the influence.
Engine cut-off switches address 169 propeller accidents
The same Coast Guard data recorded 169 propeller accidents in 2024, resulting in 30 deaths and 158 injuries. Engine cut-off switches, which stop a powerboat's engine if the operator falls overboard, are required by law and are credited with preventing such injuries.
Paddlecraft deaths rose across kayaks, canoes and paddleboards
Paddlecraft fatalities increased in 2024, with kayak deaths up 16%, standup paddleboard deaths up 5%, and canoe deaths up 4.5%, based on the same Coast Guard report. Phillips advised boaters to assign a lookout to monitor others on the water, particularly children.
Alcohol remains the top contributing factor in boater deaths
Boating under the influence remains the leading contributing factor in recreational boater deaths, according to the Council. Alcohol can amplify impaired judgment, reduced balance, and poor coordination, making a designated sober skipper essential.
Free vessel checks and float plans recommended before departure
The Council recommends boaters schedule a free vessel safety check through the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary or U.S. Power Squadrons before departing. It also advises filing a float plan with someone on shore detailing the trip itinerary, checking weather forecasts throughout the outing, and carrying multiple waterproof communication devices such as VHF radios or satellite phones.
The Safe Boating Campaign operates under a grant from the Sport Fish Restoration and Boating Trust Fund, administered by the U.S. Coast Guard.