Stay Safe This Summer On North Dakota And Montana Waters

Boating is an awesome way to enjoy the summer. With boats hitting the water in full force, the North Dakota Game and Fish Department and Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks remind everyone to stay safe. 

North Dakota Life Jacket Rules 

• Every boat must have enough life jackets for all passengers. 

• In North Dakota, kids under 10 must wear a life jacket on boats under 27 feet. 

• Personal watercraft users and those towed on skis or tubes must wear life jackets. 

• Windsurfers 16+ can go without a life jacket. 

Make sure life jackets fit well and are in good condition. Water skiers and tubers should use life jackets with straps, not zippers. Anglers and paddlers should choose comfortable PFDs for extended wear.  

Boating Education 

• Kids 12-15 need a boating safety course to operate watercraft alone. Courses are available for all ages. 

• Click here for more boating safety information. 

Montana Life Jacket Rules 

• Every boat must have a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket for each person. 

• Kids under 12 must wear their life jacket on board. 

• Anglers in rowed or paddled vessels need life jackets. Those using kicking fins or sitting on the water don't, but it's recommended. 

• If a motor is attached, the vessel is considered a motorboat and must carry life jackets. 

• Click here for more boating safety info. 

Accident Reporting 

• In North Dakota, report boating accidents to the Game and Fish Department within 48 hours if there are injuries, fatalities, or missing persons. Property damage over $2,000 must be reported within five days. 

• In Montana, report accidents immediately to the local sheriff or game warden if there are deaths, injuries needing more than first aid, or property damage over $100. 

• Provide your name, address, and boat ID to affected parties. 

No Drinking and Driving 

Operating a boat under influence is illegal. Alcohol increases the risk of accidents. 

Stay safe and enjoy your time on the water. 

(Read More: North Dakota Drivers: Don’t Leave This in Your Car!)