May 21-27 is National Safe Boating Week, a week dedicated to bringing awareness to the importance of safety and responsibility on the water. One of the simplest and most effective things you can do while boating is wearing a lifejacket.

Lifejackets save lives, but only if they are worn. Each year, 75% of the people who died in a boating incident drowned because they weren’t wearing a lifejacket. We want everyone here on Elkhorn Creek to have a fun and safe time, and make great memories on the water.

Forgot a lifejacket or bringing an extra buddy along? We have a Life Jacket Loaner Station at the Knight's Bridge/American Whitewater Access on Elkhorn Creek, available to make sure that every boater, no matter their age or size, can have access to a free life jacket to borrow to keep them safe on the water. Please utilize this great resource and return lifejackets after borrowing.

While it is important to have a lifejacket while boating, it is equally as important to ensure that it fits you properly. All buckles and zippers should be secured and straps tightened snugly, and the user should fall into the weight range that the lifejacket is rated for.

If you're in the market for a lifejacket of your own, we have a variety of great options here at our shop. Happy paddling and stay safe out there!