MADISON — June storms have pushed lake and river levels into flood levels, tossed debris into waterways and accelerated currents statewide, signaling Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources officials to remind all water users to think safety first.

This severe weather is a reminder for all to check local water conditions before boating or paddling, swimming or any water activity, said Capt. April Dombrowski, head of the DNR Bureau of Law Enforcement’s Recreation Safety and Outdoor Skills Section, in a news release. Good places to check are local tourism offices, DNR offices, bait shops, sporting goods stores or the U.S. Geological Survey.

“One quick safety tip is to always wear a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket,” Dombrowski said in the release. “Wearing one just might save your life.”

Some of these storms and heavy rains have pushed trees and other debris in the water, which creates another danger to keep watch. High water levels also increases the shoreline and erosion impacts of your boat wake. Some areas have implemented lake-wide slow-no-wake requirements. Remember to always be aware of your boat wake and impact on others and check signs prior to launching, Dombrowski said.

More safety tips:

  • Make a float plan, follow that plan – and let someone know where you are going.
  • Always wear a life jacket. All people in either canoe or kayak are required by law to have a wearable U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket on board.
  • Match your skill level to water and weather conditions.
  • Take a boating safety class and hone your skills.
    • Everyone born on or after Jan. 1, 1989, must have completed a boating safety course to operate a motorboat (unless ages 10-15 and accompanied by a parent or guardian). You can take an online boat safety course.
  • Do not overload your vessel.
  • Place belongings and dry clothing in a wet sack or other waterproof container.
  • Another top tip is to remain sober while operating your boat or paddling. Hold off on consuming alcohol until after your recreational boating outing. Remember the upcoming national Operation Dry Water event, when law enforcement agencies partner to keep the waters safe for all by removing impaired operators. DNR wardens will be out, joining local boat patrols for this June 29 – July 1 weekend.
  • Wisconsin has many popular lakes and rivers that attract many users for all sorts of water activities. And with all the users comes boat congestion and unintended user conflicts. For all water recreational enthusiasts to have a safe and enjoyable outing, it’s important to slow down, use common sense and respect other users on the waters.