SALT LAKE CITY, Utah, July 23, 2026 (Gephardt Daily) — The Utah Division of Outdoor Recreation, Department of Natural Resources Law Enforcement Division and Utah’s Office of the Medical Examiner are urging all boaters and water recreationists to wear a life jacket and practice safe behaviors around the water following an increase in drowning fatalities across the state this year.
According to state officials, at least eight people have died in open-water drowning incidents in Utah in 2026; seven of them were not wearing a life jacket, highlighting the continued importance of water safety as Utahns head into another busy holiday recreation weekend.
During a joint press event Thursday, Dr. Cory Russo, Division Director of the Utah Office of the Medical Examiner, and DNR Law Enforcement Major Steve Bullock shared firsthand perspectives on the devastating impacts drowning fatalities have on families and communities and the simple steps Utahns can take to prevent them.
“Drowning tragedies affect far more than the individual involved,” Russo said. “Every drowning represents a family experiencing loss, and most of the cases we see are preventable. My office is often the last stop after a preventable tragedy.. Wearing a life jacket is one very simple decision that will save a life.”
Russo also encouraged Utahns to recreate responsibly by never swimming or boating alone.
“Along with wearing a life jacket, swim with a friend. Having someone with you can make all the difference when something unexpected happens on the water.”
According to DNR Law Enforcement, approximately 90% of boating-related drowning victims were not wearing a life jacket at the time of the incident. While many people assume they can rely on their swimming ability, unexpected falls, cold water shock, changing weather conditions, alcohol use, fatigue and equipment failures can quickly turn a day on the water into an emergency.
“Drowning victims never expected to end up in trouble,” said Major Steve Bullock. “Life jackets work, and they save lives every year. They’re simple, effective, and often the difference between life and death. The best rescue is the one that never has to happen. Wearing a life jacket is one of the simplest things you can do to make sure everyone comes home safely.”
Bullock noted that drowning incidents often occur under circumstances that can affect anyone, regardless of age, experience level or swimming ability.
“Cold water, changing weather, an unexpected fall overboard or a medical emergency can happen to anyone. That’s why wearing a life jacket should be as automatic as buckling your seatbelt.”
Officials also highlighted Utah’s statewide network of Life Jacket Loaner Stations, which provide free access to life jackets at state parks and other recreation destinations throughout Utah. The program helps remove barriers to life jacket use by making properly fitted life jackets available where people recreate.
“Life Jacket Loaner Stations are located at state parks and other recreation areas across Utah because we want to make it as easy as possible for people to make the safe choice,” Bullock said. “Adults should lead by example and wear their life jacket for themselves and for their families.”
“State parks are some of Utah’s most popular recreation destinations, and safety is always our top priority,” said Chris Haramoto, deputy director of the Utah Division of State Parks. “Expanding these loaner stations across our parks ensures visitors have access to life-saving equipment and reinforces the importance of responsible recreation.”
Utahns can find a nearby Life Jacket Loaner Station and learn more about boating safety by visiting recreation.utah.gov/life-jacket-loaner-stations.
The agencies encourage everyone heading out on Utah’s waters this summer to follow the state’s boating safety message: “Don’t Just Bring It. Wear It. For them.”
Life jacket loaner station. Photo: Utah Department of Natural Resources
