Utah Department of Natural Resources just announced that 23 Utah State Parks and additional locations now feature life jacket loaner stations. Utah’s Life Jacket Loaner Station Program is a statewide safety initiative designed to reduce preventable drownings by offering free life jackets at popular recreation areas. The self-serve stations provide U.S. Coast Guard-approved personal flotation devices in a range of sizes for children and adults and 100% free to use.
This incredible program is made possible through partnerships with the Utah Division of Outdoor Recreation, Utah Division of State Parks and Intermountain Children’s Health, which stocks and manages 23 loaner stations throughout Utah’s State Parks.
“Together, we’re working to ensure that everyone, regardless of experience or resources, has access to a properly fitted life jacket.”
How it works
- Take one before heading out on the water
- Wear it while boating, paddling, fishing, or playing near the shoreline
- Return it when you’re done so someone else can use it
“Safety starts with you. Life jackets save lives — but only when worn. Make it a habit every time you are on the water, whether you are boating, paddling, kayaking, paddleboarding, or fishing near shore. Don’t just bring it. Wear it.”
Utah law requires one life jacket per person. Kids under 13 are required to wear one at all times. For more information about the Life Jacket Loaner Program, you can visit recreation.utah.gov.
About The Utah Lake Life Jacket Loaner Program:
The Utah Lake Life Jacket Loaner Program provides the public with free use of life jackets on a first-come, first-served basis. Research shows that most drowning could have been prevented if a life jacket had been worn by the victim. The goals for this program are to increase the wearing of life jackets during water-based activities as well as to educate the visiting public on the importance of proper use and fit of life jackets and water safety.
