Washington State Parks: State Parks Boating Program Shares Tips For Paddlesport Safety

Press release from Washington State Parks:

July 14, 2021

Get on board with safety during Paddle Safe Week July 18-24

Olympia – July 14, 2021 – The Washington State Parks Boating Program wants paddlers to have fun – and be safe - on the water. Paddle Safe Week runs from July 18 through July 24. The campaign encourages people to learn about safe paddling practices and how to put them to use on the water this summer and year-round.

“We encourage people to educate themselves and to always carry proper gear,” said Rob Sendak, Boating Program manager. “Education helps paddlers develop sharp decision making skills that could save their life or that of a friend or loved one.” 

For the fourth year in a row, Gov. Jay Inslee has issued a proclamation declaring this coming week Paddle Safe Week.

Why is paddlesport safety so important? 

 Here are the top ten safety tips recommended by the Boating Program:                                                 

Follow social mediaPaddlers can participate in Paddle Safe Week through social media by using the hashtags #PaddleSafeWeek, #PaddleSmart, #PaddleSafe, #PaddleSober, #PaddlePrepared, #PaddleToBeSeen

About the Washington State Boating ProgramThe Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission administers the state’s Boating Program, which provides leadership in boating safety and environmental education and outreach. The goal of the program is to reduce accidents and fatalities, increase stewardship of Washington waterways, and keep recreational boating a safe, accessible and enjoyable pastime. For more information on the Boating Program, visit www.parks.wa.gov/boating.

News media contacts:Rob Sendak, Boating Program, (360) 628-1876Meryl Lassen, Communications Office, (360) 902-8604 media@parks.wa.gov

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About Washington State Parks

The Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission manages more than 100 state parks and properties totaling approximately 120,000 acres. The Commission provides a variety of recreation opportunities for citizens and provides stewardship protection for a diverse array of natural, cultural and historic resources. State Parks’ statewide programs include long-distance trails, boating safety and winter recreation.

News release number: 21-042 

This press release was produced by Washington State Parks. The views expressed here are the author’s own.