Utah seeks public input on life jacket use in new boating safety study

The Utah Division of Outdoor Recreation is asking residents who spend time on the water to participate in a new survey about life jacket use and boating safety. Photo: Bohdan Hyrovych

SALT LAKE CITY — Utah recreation officials are asking boaters, anglers and other water users to participate in a new study examining why people choose to wear, or not wear, life jackets.

The Utah Division of Outdoor Recreation and the University of Utah School of Public Affairs launched the survey to better understand life jacket use, boating habits, and water safety knowledge across the state.

According to the Division of Outdoor Recreation, more than 90% of people who die in boating-related drownings in Utah each year are not wearing a life jacket.

The survey is open to Utah residents aged 18 and older who spend time on lakes, reservoirs, or rivers. Participants may include boaters, paddlers, anglers, personal watercraft users, and others who recreate on the water.

The survey takes about 10 to 15 minutes and asks about boating habits, water safety knowledge, and how people select and wear life jackets. Participants will also receive information about proper life jacket use as they complete the survey.

Officials said the responses will help guide future boating safety education, public awareness campaigns, and outreach aimed at reducing preventable drownings.

The survey will remain open through August. Additional boating safety information and Utah life jacket requirements are available at boating.utah.gov.