As the autumn leaves begin their descent, the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is urging boaters to keep safety at the forefront of their minds, especially in the challenging conditions posed by colder waters. The call to action isn’t without reason; 2025 has seen its share of tragedy with 13 reported boating fatalities. In stark terms, the absence of life jackets played a critical role in many of these deaths.
"Life jackets are the simplest and most effective safety way to save lives," stated Major April Dombrowski, the DNR Recreational Safety and Outdoor Skills Bureau Director. It's an indispensable simple truth—when emergencies strike, often silently and without warning, the life jacket could be the only barrier between you and the abyss. As the officials note, a properly fitting, U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket should be worn at all times on the water. Moreover, every vessel exceeding 16 feet needs to be equipped with a throwable personal flotation device.
Boating in the fall isn't just about admiring the beauty of changing foliage from the river; it's also about recognizing the volatility of the waters during this season. The DNR's appeal comes backed with a list of precautions: wear your life jacket, dress in layers that can adapt to fluctuating temperatures, and always, always keep an eye on the weather and water conditions before setting sail.
While the serenity of the lake might call for a toast, the DNR advice counsels caution, reminding boaters that alcohol and water don't mix. Impaired judgments and reaction times are luxuries one can't afford in the face of an emergency—the message is clear and forbidding. And, in the event of unforeseen events, ensure that your whereabouts and plans are known to someone on the shore, and your equipment, which includes safety essentials like a whistle, a throw rope, a first aid kit, and that modern-day lifeline, a charged cell phone nestled in a waterproof case, has been double-checked.
