Here’s a fun fact for you:
According to one of the theories, the state of Idaho got its name from the Indian word “ídaahę́” - which translates to “The Land of Many Waters.”
Considering that the combined length of Idaho's waterways, including rivers and lakes, amounts to more than 107,000 miles - which, by the way, could stretch across the United States 35 times - the name shouldn’t come as a surprise.
There’s a lot to explore and be excited about as a water sports enthusiast in Idaho - but with that said, there’s a safe and not-so-safe way to go about it.
The safety and well-being of those who choose to spend their time in one of Idaho’s state parks and participate in on-the-water activities on Idaho’s lakes and rivers is a priority. So, here are six safety tips for every water sports enthusiast.
1. Always Wear A Life Jacket – No Ifs, Buts, Or Maybes
The US Coast Guard’s annual Recreational Boating Statistics Report revealed that there was a total of 658 boating fatalities in 2021. While that was a significant 14.2% decrease compared to the previous year, the fact remains:
Out of all instances where the cause of death has been determined, as much as 81% of victims of fatal boating accidents had drowned. This report further revealed that 83% of these drowning victims were not wearing a PFD.
Even if you consider yourself a strong swimmer and the waters seem calm and shallow - maybe even harmless - you should wear a life jacket. Things can go from “fun” to “dangerous” in mere seconds, even in the calmest of waters and the most pleasant of weather conditions.
Drowning is the leading cause of recreational boating fatalities in Idaho; there’s no excuse not to wear a PFD while on the water.
Idaho’s Life Jacket Requirements
According to Idaho’s law, all vessels and personal watercraft must be equipped with at least one US Coast-Guard-approved life jacket (Type I, II, III, or V) for each person aboard. The PFD must be in a suitable size, in serviceable condition, and readily accessible.
Moreover, children 14 years of age or younger on vessels 19 feet or less are required to wear a US Coast-Guard-approved and properly fitting life jacket while the vessel is underway.
If you don’t own a PFD, head to one of the nearby Life Jacket Loaner Stations, where you can borrow one for the day free of charge.
2. Dress For The Water Temperature – Not The Weather
Idaho tends to be a very cold place in the winter months. The average high for July is 85.4 degrees Fahrenheit, with the average low in January being 17.2 degrees Fahrenheit. Furthermore, Idaho sees roughly 18 inches of rain and 47.4 inches of snow per year, the latter being higher than the national average of 27.8 inches.
That is to say, the risk of suffering from cold shock or going into hypothermia is real - and should not be taken lightly.
For anyone participating in water sports and on-the-water activities, wearing proper clothing and dressing for immersion is key to staying safe.
How To Dress For Water Sports & On-The-Water Activities
A wetsuit is advised if the weather is generally nice and the water temperature doesn’t go below 60 degrees Fahrenheit. However, if the conditions get severe and the combined temperatures of the water and air drop below 120 degrees Fahrenheit, a dry suit becomes a must.
In addition to that:
● Dress in layers. You never know when the conditions might change. It is important to be able to drop a layer - or add one - depending on the temperature.
● Avoid cotton. It would be a great choice of fabric for any other outdoor activity - just not this one. Wet cotton is heavy, virtually impossible to swim in, and can take forever to dry.
● Opt for quick-drying, breathable, and moisture-wicking materials. Nylon, neoprene, polyester, and natural fibers, like Merino wool, are great options.
● Make sure you can move. It is not just a matter of comfort. Depending on the activity, it can be a matter of safety, too.
3. Know Your Limits – Do Not Overestimate Your Ability
You’re the only one who truly knows your limits and what your body can - and cannot - do.
But here’s something to keep in mind:
The water can be deceiving at times, and it can be pretty easy to overlook muscle strain or other forms of injury due to the body’s inherent buoyancy. You feel almost weightless in the water, and that can create a false sense of security and cause you to push beyond your limits, often without realizing it.
Regardless of the type of water sport activity you are participating in, you must take a moment to check in with your body and ensure that you're not pushing yourself too hard.
The same applies to understanding - and respecting - your current skills and abilities. Nothing is more dangerous than overstepping your abilities and biting off more than you can really chew.
Ready To Take A Safety Course?
The state of Idaho does not require recreational boaters to get a license or complete any form of boating education. However, inexperience is listed as the second leading contributing factor in on-the-water accidents, which is why it’s recommended that recreational boaters take a safety course approved by the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators.
4. Avoid Drinking Alcohol Before – Or During – Any Water Sports Activities
In USCG’s Recreational Boating Statistics Report for 2021, alcohol is highlighted as the leading known contributing factor in boating incidents with fatal outcomes. In all fatal cases where the primary cause was determined, alcohol use was listed as a primary contributing factor in 16% of deaths.
The CDC cautions against drinking alcohol, noting that it puts adults (as well as adolescents) at a higher risk of drowning:
As much as 70% of deaths linked to water sports or on-the-water recreation in adolescents and adults involved alcohol use. The statistics also show that one in five boating deaths, and nearly one in four drowning-related emergency calls, have involved the use of alcohol.
That is because alcohol has an adverse effect on the body - and may lead to:
- Poor coordination, balance, and control of the body
- Behavior changes and impaired decision making
- Drowsiness
- Slower reaction times and reflexes
- Impaired (blurred) vision
Can You Get A BUI In Idaho?
Boating under the influence (BUI) is illegal in all 50 states, including Idaho:
Operating any watercraft while under the influence of alcohol, drugs - and any other intoxicating substances - is strictly prohibited.
Under Idaho’s boating laws, an individual is considered to be “under the influence” if:
- They have a blood alcohol concentration of 0.08% or higher (individuals 21 years of age or older)
- They have a blood alcohol concentration of 0.02% or higher (individuals under 21 years of age)
5. Eyes Wide Open – Be Aware Of Your Surroundings
It’s easy to enter a trance-like, almost “meditative” state when you’re out on the water. But letting your guard down and failing to pay attention to the surroundings may turn a wonderful afternoon into a potentially life-threatening situation in a matter of seconds.
Let’s put it like this:
You probably wouldn’t dare to cross a busy road without taking a moment to look both ways and take note of any oncoming traffic. There is no reason why the same wouldn’t apply to navigating waterways and participating in on-the-water activities.
Keep your eyes wide open, stay alert, and be aware of the surroundings at all times.
Watch out for:
- Other swimmers and boaters in the area. There are certain rules of the road that must be followed when you’re sharing the waters with other people and boats.
- Wildlife. The state of Idaho is known for its nature and wildlife. It is of utmost importance that you remain aware of any animals in the area and maintain a safe distance.
- River hazards - including low-head dams, strainers, and sweepers. Fremont County alone is home to 13 low-head dams, five of which are located on the Snake River.
6. Take Note Of Weather Conditions & Learn To Understand The Warnings
Spending an afternoon on the water is a wonderful experience that gives you a unique view of your surroundings. However, there is little to no protection from the elements. When you’re out there, you’re in the open - and adverse weather poses a major risk.
That's why you must take note of weather conditions.
Besides, planning is “half the battle,” as they say. That applies to any outdoor adventure - be it a trip to the nearby campground or a day on the water. And one of the key aspects of planning any outdoor activity is checking the weather forecast.
Water sports enthusiasts are advised to check the following:
- Weather forecast
- Wind speed and direction
- Severe weather warnings
- River forecasts
Keep in mind that, depending on the area you’re in, Idaho’s weather can be pretty wild and even unpredictable at times. It is generally advised to have a plan B in case things actually take a turn for the worse weather-wise.
What If You’re Caught In A Storm?
While it might seem like you have nothing but clear weather ahead, you can never be absolutely certain that the conditions won’t change.
The safest course of action is getting off the water and heading to the nearest shore as soon as you start noticing changes in the weather. If you get caught in a storm, you can attempt to ride it out, but keep a lookout for obstructions, debris, and boats to minimize the risk of collision.