Myth 5 – Life jackets make movement harderIf you select the right life jacket, it will not restrict any sporting activity. If you are unsure about the suitability of your life jacket for a particular activity, buy one that is specially made for that activity. Make sure you are wearing the correct life jacket size for optimal fit and performance.

Myth 6 – Life jackets are required only if the weather is badMost recreational boating accidents occur in good weather. In most accidents, the main factors are inexperience, impaired judgment, the lack of attention, equipment failure or speeding.

Myth 7 – Adults don’t need life jacketsLife jackets are essential irrespective of age. About 80% of the people who drown during recreational activities are adults.

Myth 8 – Life jackets are required only in deep waterThere are many instances where people who were fishing or engaging in activities near the water’s edge have fallen into the water. Some were incapacitated due to injuries sustained in the fall, and it was their life jacket that kept them alive until help arrived.

Remember - Life Jackets Save Lives

The Energy, Minerals and Natural Resources Department’s State Park Division wants to remind New Mexicans that wearing a life jacket can be the difference between life and death. Did you know that 79% of boating deaths are due to drowning, 86% of victims were not wearing life jackets, and two thirds of drowning victims considered themselves good swimmers?

Thousands of New Mexicans venture into the water every day without wearing a life jacket, needlessly putting their lives at risk.

If you’re heading out on the water, please review these common myths:

Myth 1 – If you are a good swimmer, you don’t need a life jacket

A large percentage of drowning victims were excellent swimmers. The ability to swim well cannot help you if you are incapacitated due to injury or alcohol. When an accident occurs, injury is a distinct possibility. Circumstances and the panic that usually accompanies an accident can work against you.

Myth 2 – Carrying life jackets on the boat is good enoughLife jackets on board may give false reassurance, but it does not translate into increased safety. Most recreational boating accidents and emergencies occur in a matter of seconds and come without warning. If someone falls into the water or if the boat overturns, having life jackets on board may not help.

Myth 3 – Life jackets are expensive, bulky, hot, uncomfortable and grossUnlike large inflated orange life jackets, life jackets meant for water sports are light, affordable, comfortable and look good. Some are not even noticeable. Life jackets can be purchased at just about any marina, outdoor or box store, and manufacturers keep coming up with better designs to make them more comfortable.

Myth 4 – It can’t happen to meNo drowning victim thinks it could happen to them. Overconfidence can never replace sensible safety precautions.

NM State Parks reminds visitors to recreate responsibly

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