With Memorial Day and summer fun quickly approaching the number of those out on the water in boats, canoes, and kayaks will gradually increase. Which is why students and faculty at the Youngstown State University Recreational Center took the opportunity to raise awareness about the importance of life jackets. 

Employees at the Rec Center wore life jackets all day, as part of "Wear Your Life Jacket to Work Day". 

The national campaign looks to instill the importance of life jackets. 

According to the National Safe Boating Council, in 2016, the Coast Guard counted 4,463 accidents that involved 701 deaths, 2,903 injuries and approximately $49 million dollars of damage to property as a result of recreational boating accidents.

At YSU, it is a problem that they're aware of. 

Joe Conroy, the Coordinator of Intramurals at YSU, told 21 News that college-age adults make up the most common victims of boating-related deaths. 

Conroy said they felt the need to wear life vests and make sure that everyone they interacted with was able to get a reminder to be safe on the lake. 

Saturday, May 19th through Friday. May 25th marks the National Safe Boating Week campaign. 

The National Safety Boating Council recommends that all boaters and passengers not only have a life jacket but wear it at all times while boating.

They provide the following tips for life jacket safety:

  • Cruising in an open motorboat:  Comfort is key – choose a life jacket you'll want to wear. For ages 16 and older, inflatable life jackets are a great option. 
  • Paddling: Special life jackets are designed with large openings for arms to allow ease of movement.
  • Personal watercraft and water sports: Inherently buoyant, lighter-weight life jackets are rugged, with multiple buckles and clasps to keep them secure after impact with the water.
  • Children: Virtually all styles available are sized especially for children – some with cartoon characters or other high-visibility themes, and many include additional safety features such as straps for pulling children from the water. 
  • Pets: Life jackets are even available for our four-legged friends. It's helpful to purchase one with a handle on top to easily pull your pet out of the water, if needed.

For more information on Boating Safety Week, life jacket awareness, and social media campaigns, click here.