DELAWARE WATER GAP NATIONAL RECREATION AREA — Visitors planning to paddle, float or boat on the Delaware River are being urged to wear a properly fitted life jacket, with National Park Service officials warning that more than 100 people have drowned in the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area and the Middle Delaware National Scenic and Recreational River since 1971.
According to the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, none of those who drowned were wearing a properly fitted and fastened U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket.
Park officials said moving water presents hazards that may not exist in lakes or other still waters. River currents can increase the danger posed by strainers, underwater snags, submerged obstacles and other boaters, even for experienced paddlers and floaters.
Officials said wearing a properly fitted and fastened life jacket can help keep a person’s head above water if they capsize, are pulled by the current or become trapped until they can self-rescue or emergency responders arrive.
New Jersey law also requires children age 12 and younger to wear a life jacket at all times while on the water.
The National Park Service encourages anyone recreating on the Delaware River to wear a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket throughout their trip.
More information about river safety is available at nps.gov/dewa/planyourvisit/river-safety.htm.
