Utah recreation officials and the Office of the Medical Examiner urged boaters and water recreationists to wear life jackets following an increase in drowning fatalities across the state this year.
State officials reported that at least eight people had died in open-water drowning incidents in Utah in 2026, with seven of those individuals not wearing a life jacket.
During a joint press event, Dr. Cory Russo, Division Director of the Utah Office of the Medical Examiner, and DNR Law Enforcement Major Steve Bullock discussed the impact of drowning fatalities on families and communities. Russo stated that most cases seen by his office are preventable and noted that wearing a life jacket is a simple decision that can save a life. He also encouraged citizens to never swim or boat alone.
According to DNR Law Enforcement, approximately 90% of boating-related drowning victims were not wearing a life jacket at the time of their incident. Officials noted that factors such as cold water, changing weather, unexpected falls, fatigue, alcohol use, and medical emergencies can affect anyone regardless of swimming ability or experience level.
To assist with water safety, officials highlighted Utah’s statewide network of Life Jacket Loaner Stations. These stations provide free access to life jackets at state parks and other recreation destinations to remove barriers to safety.
Chris Haramoto, deputy director of the Utah Division of State Parks, stated that expanding these loaner stations across parks ensures visitors have access to life-saving equipment. The agencies encouraged those heading to Utah waters to follow the safety message: Don’t Just Bring It. Wear It. For them.
Information regarding nearby Life Jacket Loaner Stations and boating safety can be found at recreation.utah.gov/life-jacket-loaner-stations.
