State emphasizes safety on the water

Next week is “Paddle Safe Week,” as proclaimed by Gov. Jay Inslee July 22 – 28, with support from Washington State Parks.

“Paddle Safe Week is a great opportunity to help reduce paddle sports-related fatalities by sharing resources and educating the community on how to recreate safely,” Boating Program Manager Rob Sendak said in a news release.

The best way to stay safe while paddling is to wear a life jacket, according to WSP, and having at least one Coast Guard-approved life jacket for each person on board all vessels, including canoes, kayaks and stand-up paddle boards, is required by state...