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Going boating this Memorial Day in South Florida? What to know to stay safe

By Edited by Mike Garbett and produced with AI assistance
Florida led the nation in boating-related fatalities in 2025, according to state wildlife officials.
Florida led the nation in boating-related fatalities in 2025, according to state wildlife officials. Alina Kacharho Unsplash

With Memorial Day weekend here and National Safe Boating Week just finished, officials are reminding South Floridians to prioritize safety on the water.

Florida led the nation in boating-related fatalities last year, according to a report from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.

FULL STORY: Hitting the water this holiday weekend? Here are safe boating week reminders

National Safe Boating Week is aimed at raising global awareness and encouraging boaters to practice safe habits on the water. 
National Safe Boating Week is aimed at raising global awareness and encouraging boaters to practice safe habits on the water.  Brandon Bell Getty Images

Here are key takeaways:

  • National Safe Boating Week, which finished Friday, May 22, is an annual effort with the U.S. Coast Guard to promote safe and responsible habits on the water.
  • Florida recorded 694 reportable boating incidents in 2025, nine more than the previous year, according to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.
  • The state led the nation in boating-related fatalities with 51 deaths in 2025, including three missing people whose disappearances were tied to boating accidents.
  • Florida had 1,027,742 registered vessels in 2025, according to the FWC report.
  • The National Safe Boating Campaign is led by the National Safe Boating Council, which promotes recreational boating safety through education and outreach.

Here are safety tips:

  • Always wear a life jacket.
  • Check boating equipment; local U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary or U.S. Power Squadrons provide free vessel safety checks.
  • Remain aware of weather and water conditions.
  • Never operate a boat under the influence.
  • Stay alert on crowded waters.
  • Make a float plan; before leaving the dock, always let someone on shore know the trip itinerary, including operator and passenger information, boat type and registration and the communication equipment onboard.
  • Use an engine cut-off switch — it’s the law. The device can stop a powerboat engine if the operator unexpectedly falls overboard.
  • Know where you’re going and travel at safe speeds.
  • Keep in touch: Have more than one communication device that works when wet.

This report was produced with the assistance of a proprietary tool powered by artificial intelligence and using our own originally reported, written and published content. It was reviewed and edited by our journalists.