Colorado Parks and Wildlife Urges Life Jacket Use as Summer Season Begins
As the unofficial start of summer approaches this Memorial Day weekend, officials from Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) are emphasizing the critical importance of wearing life jackets while enjoying the state’s lakes and rivers. Public information officer Bridget O’Rourke conveyed a serious message, as the state has reported at least five water-related fatalities thus far in 2024, with three of these incidents occurring at state parks where victims were not wearing life jackets.
“We understand that we might sound overly cautious,” O’Rourke remarked, “but our objective is for everyone to enjoy their time on the water safely. The hydration conditions in Colorado’s water bodies can be particularly harsh, and wearing a life jacket can make the difference between life and death.”
Risks of Cold Water
In the Rocky Mountains of Colorado, lakes and rivers remain cold, especially during the early summer months when snowmelt contributes to lower temperatures. When someone unexpectedly enters these icy waters, they can suffer from “cold-water shock,” a physiological reaction that can lead to rapid breathing and loss of muscle control. O’Rourke warned that even seasoned swimmers can struggle to return to their boats or reach the shore under such conditions. Life jackets are particularly effective in keeping individuals afloat until help arrives or they regain composure.
This month, a tragic incident occurred involving a 72-year-old man from Steamboat Springs, whose body was discovered at Steamboat Lake State Park after his fishing tube capsized. He was found tethered to the inflatable tube but without a life jacket. In a similar scenario, a 53-year-old man drowned at Lake Pueblo State Park while attempting to aid children swimming in turbulent waters—he, too, was not wearing a life jacket.
Memorial Day Safety Lessons
Last year’s Memorial Day weekend serves as a grim reminder of the potential dangers when water activities are met with sudden weather changes. A windstorm at Dillon Reservoir resulted in multiple boats capsizing, plunging three individuals into the frigid waters. Fortunately, thanks to their life jackets, all three were rescued and suffered only from hypothermia.
| Incident Date | Location | Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| June 2024 | Steamboat Lake State Park | Fatality (No Life Jacket) |
| June 2024 | Lake Pueblo State Park | Fatality (No Life Jacket) |
| May 2023 | Dillon Reservoir | 3 Rescued (All Had Life Jackets) |
Borrowing Life Jackets
Visitors to Colorado’s recreation areas have access to loaner life jackets at numerous locations. O’Rourke encourages paddlers and boaters to inquire about available life jackets if they arrive without one. The Colorado Parks and Wildlife website offers guidance on where to find these loaner stations across various state parks.
With Colorado’s unpredictable weather, complete with sudden storms and high winds, the importance of life jackets cannot be overstated, especially when engaging in water sports such as kayaking or rafting. O’Rourke underscored that life jackets are also required by law, noting that children under 13 must wear one at all times on any water vessel, with adults obliged to carry a properly fitting life jacket.
Officials want to stress that while enjoying the great outdoors is beneficial for mental and physical health, safety should always be a priority. “We’re excited for everyone to experience Colorado’s beauty, but we want to ensure they do so safely,” O’Rourke concluded.
