Friday, January 23, 2009

Boating fatalities in 2008 were the lowest in over 40 years

"Fewer boaters died last year on Minnesota lakes than any other year since 1961.

Boating fatalities have declined for the last several years, with 12 people dying last year, 15 in 2007 and 14 in 2006. In comparison, 57 boaters died in 1961, 30 died in 2002 and 23 died in 2005.

Officials at the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources attribute the decline in deaths to more people wearing life jackets and taking boat safety classes as well as tougher alcohol laws and enforcement and larger, more stable boats."

No comments: