Division of Natural Resources reports uptick in OHV, boating accidents

SALT LAKE CITY — The Utah Division of Natural Resources said there has been an increase in preventable summer recreation accidents. 

During a press conference at Jordanelle State Park on Monday, DNR officials said many of this summer’s accidents have been preventable. 

“Our message is simple: wear a life jacket, wear a helmet and never operate under the influence,” said DNR Chief Todd Royce. 

According to the DNR, summer recreation accidents included nine boating incidents over the Fourth of July weekend. One of them was related to boating under the influence. 

In 2025 so far, there have been six boating-related deaths.

One was related to a “motorized personal watercraft,” which is a vessel powered by water jets, such as a jet ski. Three deaths were related to paddled watercraft, such as paddle boards and canoes, and the other two were related to swimming. 

Summer recreation accidents on the water

None of the six people who’ve died this year were wearing life jackets, according to the DNR. 

Per Utah law, one life jacket must be stored for each person on board a boat at all times. Children under the age of 12 must wear theirs all the time. 

“Wearing a life jacket is the single most important thing you can do to stay safe on the water,” Ty Hunter, the boating program manager for the Division of Outdoor Recreation said. 

The DNR recommended taking a boating education course, as well, even if it’s not required. Youth operating personal watercraft are required to take these courses. 

Finally, the DNR discouraged consuming alcoholic beverages while operating a boat. Alcohol is the second most common factor in boating accidents. Boating under the influence leads to the same penalties as driving while drunk. 

Consequences can include fines, jail time and community service requirements. Driving under the influence could also lead to job loss. 

Preventing OHV accidents

On land, seven OHV crashes happened over the Fourth of July weekend. Per the DNR, two of them resulted in life-threatening injuries. Three were related to driving under the influence. 

OHVs include dune buggies, four-wheelers and all terrain vehicles. 

Similar to wearing a lifejacket while boating or a seatbelt while driving, wearing a helmet while operating an off-highway vehicle could save your life.

Utah law requires that anyone under 18 wear a helmet when riding, but safety experts say everyone should wear one. 

Anyone operating an OHV in Utah is required to complete an education course. The DNR said they teach a variety of critical skills, such as understanding your vehicle’s capabilities, safely navigating terrain and avoiding risky movements. 

Finally, you should not operate an OHV after consuming alcohol. This can also lead to DUI charges. 

The DNR said DUI arrests and alcohol-related accidents involving OHVs are increasing. 

Other general summer recreation advice from the DNR 

In addition to activity-specific advice, the DNR provided some general safety and well-being tips for outdoor adventures. 

“Whether you’re boating, hiking or riding off-road, your safety is your responsibility,” Division of Law Enforcement Captain Chase Pili said. “Every injury and fatality affects families and communities. But the good news is that most of these are preventable. Make the right choices.”

Check the weather, avoid the hottest hours

Before going outside, check the weather and conditions. If you see a storm in the forecast, consider delaying recreation until after it has passed, or continue monitoring the sky as you recreate. 

If it looks like a storm could move in, begin moving to shelter immediately. 

Similarly, avoid the hottest parts of the day to reduce the risk of heat and sun-related illness. The DNR recommended beginning activities earlier in the day or waiting until the evening. 

Pack enough food and water 

When venturing outside, bring at least a gallon of water for each person in your group, per day you’ll be out. For example, if you’ll be camping for two days with three people, you will need at least six gallons. 

It is also recommended to pack salty snacks, as they can help replace electrolytes. Electrolyte products like sports drinks and hydration mixes may also be beneficial during strenuous activities. 

“Pack your patience”

Per the DNR, crowds are likely during summer holidays and weekends. Remain patient with recreation area staff, who are working tirelessly to keep areas clean and safe. 

Additionally, be patient with other recreators to avoid potentially dangerous conflicts.