Prairie State Wire

As the summer boating season begins, the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) and Illinois Conservation Police are emphasizing the importance of wearing life jackets and operating boats sober. This message coincides with National Safe Boating Week, which runs from May 17-23.

Jed Whitchurch, Director of the Office of Law Enforcement, stated, "As the boating season approaches, the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, Office of Law Enforcement, reminds all waterway enthusiasts that safety is a shared responsibility. Every boater plays a vital role in creating a secure and enjoyable environment on the water."

In 2024, there were 63 reportable boating accidents in Illinois waters resulting in 15 fatalities and 32 injuries. Previous years saw varying numbers: 70 accidents with 12 fatalities in 2023; 52 accidents with six fatalities in 2022; and 93 accidents with 16 fatalities in 2021.

Statistics indicate most boating incidents occur between noon and 6 p.m. on weekends during June to August under clear conditions. Many involve operators aged between 20 to 40 who have significant experience but lack formal safety instruction.

The IDNR offers free boating safety courses covering laws and regulations alongside safe operation practices. A Boating Safety Certificate is mandatory for anyone born on or after January 1, 1998, wishing to operate motorboats over ten horsepower. Cody Gray from IDNR emphasized that "Safety should be the first priority of those enjoying Illinois waterways this summer."

Boating under the influence remains a concern. In response to this issue, officers strictly enforce OUI laws for boat operators. Increases were noted in arrests for OUI offenses: from 72 arrests in 2023 to an increase of eleven percent by last year.

State law mandates personal flotation devices aboard all vessels and requires everyone operating personal watercraft or jet skis to wear them at all times.

IDNR celebrates its centennial anniversary this year since its establishment as the Illinois Department of Conservation on July 1,1925. The department oversees various conservation efforts across wildlife management sites statewide while managing licenses among other responsibilities.