Ohio Boating and Watercraft

National Safe Boating Week (May 16–22) may be wrapping up, but safe habits on the water should stay with us all season long. As Ohioans gear up for summer adventures, now is the perfect time to recommit to the basics that protect everyone on our waterways.

Keep these safety essentials in mind each time you head out:

• Always wear a U.S. Coast Guard–approved life jacket that fits properly

• Build your skills with a certified boating safety course

• Share a float plan before leaving shore

• Use your engine cut‑off switch as required by law

• Check the forecast so you’re not caught off guard

• Stay sober while operating a boat

• Carry a waterproof communication device

Before that first trip of the year, take a quick look at your life jackets. Inspect them for damage, verify labels are readable, and confirm that inflatable components haven’t expired.

From paddling to cruising and everything in between, preparation is one of the best ways to ensure a fun and safe time on the water. Let’s keep Ohio’s lakes and rivers safe for everyone throughout the summer.

Learn more at ohiodnr.gov/boating.

Ohio Department of Natural Resources
National Safe Boating Council
Safe Boating Campaign
Ohio, The Heart of it All

It's the last day of National Safe Boating Week, but the fun is just beginning. Get out there this summer and find adventure. Make fun, safe memories. 🧡

Here's our final tip for the week! Always pay attention and maintain full visibility when operating a vessel.

It's National Safe Boating Week! Day 6 - Tip 6: Take a safe boating course.

It's Day 5 of National Safe Boating Week! Today's : Prepare for the unexpected.

It's National Safe Boating Week! Day 4 - Tip 4: Never boat under the influence.

It's National Safe Boating Week! Day 3 - Tip 3: File a float plan – let someone know when and where you’re boating.

It's Day 2 of National Safe Boating Week! Feel free to share our posts directly to your page! Today's reminder: An ECOS matters – use it.

It’s National Safe Boating Week (May 16–22)! As more Ohioans head out on the water, we’re joining the National Safe Boating Council to remind everyone that a few simple habits can save lives.

Here are a few ways to stay safe on every outing:

• Wear a properly fitting, U.S. Coast Guard–approved life jacket

• Take a boating safety course

• Make a float plan

• Use your engine cut‑off switch (it’s the law)

• Check the weather

• Stay sober

• Bring a waterproof way to call for help

Before your first launch of the season, take a minute to check your life jackets—especially inflatable ones. Look for wear and tear, ensure labels are readable, and make sure components aren’t expired.

Whether you're paddling, fishing, tubing, or cruising, a little preparation goes a long way. Let’s keep Ohio’s waterways safe for everyone.

Learn more at ohiodnr.gov/boating.

Ohio Department of Natural Resources
Ohio, The Heart of it All
Ohio Boating and Watercraft
ODNR Parks & Watercraft Cleveland Marine Office

It's National Safe Boating Week! Day 1 - Tip 1: Always wear a life jacket! For life jacket fit facts visit: https://safeboatingcampaign.com/life-jackets/

🧡 Like and share our posts each day, or schedule alongside us using our toolkit: https://safeboatingcampaign.com/resources/national-safe-boating-week-toolkit/

National Safe Boating Council |