‘Wear your life jacket to work day’ slated for May 17

Upper Delaware Scenic and Recreational River recently announced the water safety campaign “Wear Your Life Jacket to Work” Day, slated to take place on Friday, May 17 as a way to encourage the public to help save lives by showing their support for water safety.

Upper Delaware S&RR is encouraging everyone to take a picture of themselves in their life jacket while at work – whether that’s at home, in the office, in a suit, or in your jammies. Post photos on social media along with the hashtags #lifejacketatwork and #safeboating on Upper Delaware’s Facebook page @updeNPS and Instagram @upperdelawarenps. Also be sure to tag @BoatingCampaign on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

Since 1980, there have been 78 drownings on the Upper Delaware River. None of these drownings occurred when the individual was wearing a properly fitted life jacket. “Life jackets can save lives and are a vital part of water safety. Wearing a properly fitting life jacket is important while participating in water activities such as canoeing, kayaking, fishing, or swimming,” said Superintendent Lindsey Kurnath. “We want all of our visitors to have a safe and memorable experience when recreating on the Delaware River.”

This annual event, hosted by the National Safe Boating Council (NSBC), serves as a fun and educational way to kick off National Safe Boating Week, taking place May 18 to 24, which is the official launch of the 2024 North American Safe Boating Campaign. Educating river users about the safety and importance of life jackets has been the primary focus of both the North American Safe Boating Campaign and Upper Delaware Scenic and Recreational River. According to the most recent U.S. Coast Guard statistics, drowning was the reported cause of death in 75% of all boating fatalities. Of those drowning victims with reported life jacket usage, 85% were not wearing a life jacket.

“Whether you are an active river user, a local business, or a community organization, everyone can play a role to spread the message that wearing a life jacket can save your life. Safety on the water is everyone’s responsibility!” the organization said in its announcement. “Wherever you are, just ‘wear it!’ Your participation could help save a life!”