Labor Day Weekend: Safety Emphasis on Paddlesports

Chelan County Sheriff’s Office participates in statewide effort

Information released by Chelan County Sheriff

As part of a statewide effort, Chelan County Sheriff’s Office will conduct safety emphasis patrols over Labor Day weekend—specifically targeting stand up paddleboarders—to educate them about laws and safe practices.

What are the laws? Every vessel, no matter what size— including kayaks, canoes and stand up paddleboards—is required by federal and Washington state laws to carry the following

Life jackets –
- Everyone 13 years of age or older must carry a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket in good condition and the right size and type for the person wearing it.
- All children 12 years of age or younger must always wear their life jacket while on board.
- Inflatable life jackets are authorized only for people 16 years of age or older.
Sounding device – horn, whistle or bell
White all-around navigation light – during low visibility such as dusk to dawn, fog or heavy rain

The penalty for failure to carry the proper safety equipment is a civil infraction punishable by a fine of $99 for each violation. For example, if a stand up paddleboarder over 13 years of age is found by an officer without an appropriate life jacket and sounding device — that is two violations and a possible fine totaling $198.

“Stand up paddleboarders need to remember that as soon as they leave a designated swim area, they are considered a vessel and subject to recreational boating laws,” said Marine Patrol Deputy Ryan Moody. “Water and weather conditions can change rapidly on Lake Chelan”. Getting separated from your paddleboard without a life jacket can easily leave you in a life or death situation”. “We strongly recommend people choose to always wear it, along with a leash, for maximum safety on the water.”