Authorities stress safety as boating season kicks off Saturday

SEATTLE — Opening day of boating season kicks off Saturday, and officials want to remind everyone that the water is still very cold.

KIRO 7 was there when the Coast Guard practiced water rescues on Lake Union, and one major point that was repeatedly emphasized was that boaters should wear life jackets, because they really can save someone’s life.

"If you don't wear a life jacket, there's a very high chance that the cold water may cause immediate drowning or may cause you to lose your strength or your ability to remain afloat,” said Seattle Coast Guard Lt. Commander Jeff Padilla. "We estimate that over 80 percent of the people who have died in the water would have had a better chance of survival if they'd worn a life jacket."

Washington says seven people have drowned in state waters so far this year. Only one was wearing a life jacket.

In addition to wearing a life jacket, police stress to:

• Boat sober
• Let someone know where you're going to launch, what area you're going to, and when you expect to be back
• Always check the weather before heading out.

Cox Media Group