With Labor Day weekend promising to draw crowds to Utah’s outdoors, state officials are amplifying calls for vigilance and precaution in order to prevent potential tragedies in parks and on trails. At a recent virtual media briefing, state outdoor recreation and wildfire officials laid out a safety blueprint for residents aiming to quickly enjoy their holiday, according to the Utah Division of State Parks.
“Our message is straightforward: wear a life jacket, wear a helmet, plan for heat and storms, don’t operate impaired and use your fire sense. Make a safety plan now so you arrive home with great memories – not a preventable tragedy,” said Captain Chase Pili from the Utah Department of Natural Resources Division of Law Enforcement, as per Utah Division of State Parks. The plea comes in the wake of statistics revealing 10 drowning fatalities and 22 off-highway vehicle (OHV) incidents, with five involving DUIs this season in the state. Officials are asking visitors to consciously wear proper gear and not operate boats or OHVs under the influence to ensure reduced risk of accidents.
On water-related activities, the emphasis is on life jackets, a critical piece of equipment credited with saving lives. “Life jackets save lives – they’re called life jackets for a reason,” Ty Hunter, the boating program manager for the Utah Division of Outdoor Recreation, told the Utah Division of State Parks. He underscored the necessity for all ages to wear U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets, with special attention to children having them fitted appropriately. Current Utah law mandates life jackets for all on board a vessel, and those 12 and under must wear them at all times.
OHV enthusiasts are not exempt from cautionary measures. Adults, as well as those under 18, are being reminded to promptly wear DOT-approved helmets to prevent serious injuries in case of rollovers and ejections. Officials have reported an increase in OHV DUI arrests and are strongly advocating for safety courses to be taken. Additionally, in handling the persistent threat of wildfires, responsible behavior such as adhering to fire restrictions and avoiding parking vehicles on dry vegetation is being stressed.
