Utah officials Urge Safe Recreation and Fire Sense ahead of Labor Day

Salt Lake City, (Aug. 27, 2025) – At a virtual media briefing today, state outdoor recreation and wildfire officials urged Utahns to take simple, proven steps to prevent tragedies on the water and trails during the Labor Day weekend – and to practice Fire Sense to reduce wildfire risk.

“Labor Day brings some of the highest use we see all year,” said Captain Chase Pili with the Utah Department of Natural Resources Division of Law Enforcement. “Our message is straightforward: wear a life jacket, wear a helmet, plan for heat and storms, don’t operate impaired and use your fire sense. Make a safety plan now so you arrive home with great memories – not a preventable tragedy.”

Officials highlighted current trends to watch:

• Water safety: Utah has experienced 10 drowning fatalities year-to-date, including incidents involving personal watercraft, paddlecraft (such as canoes and stand-up paddleboards), and swimming-related accidents. Nine of the 10 victims were not wearing life jackets.
• OHV safety: This season, officers have responded to 22 OHV crash incidents, 5 involving DUIs and 7 that caused life-threatening injuries, often tied to rollovers and ejections.
• Fire safety: Large fires continue to burn across the state. 886 wildfires have burned over 163,000 acres this year – at least one new start per day since mid-May. Nearly 70% have been human-caused.

The Four Asks for the Holiday Weekend:

1. Wear it.
   • On the water: Wear a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket before you launch – regardless of age or swimming ability.
   • On the trail: Wear a DOT-approved helmet, buckle up in machines, add eye/hand protection and ride within your limits.
2. Plan for heat and storms. Check the forecast and local advisories, bring water and electrolytes, avoid slot canyons and exposed ridges when storms build, and adjust plans for high heat.
3. Don’t operate impaired. Operating a boat or OHV under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs is illegal (0.05% BAC) and unsafe. Expect increased patrols focused on education and safety.
4. Use your Fire Sense. Know and follow current restrictions; keep campfires dead out and cold to the touch; avoid sparks when target shooting; park vehicles (including UTVs) away from dry vegetation.

“Life jackets save lives – they’re called life jackets for a reason,” said Ty Hunter, boating program manager for the Utah Division of Outdoor Recreation. “In most fatal boating incidents, victims were not wearing a life jacket, so please put it on before you head out. Make sure it fits snugly and is approved for your activity, and keep kids in properly sized jackets at all times.” 

Forestry, Fire & State Lands officials emphasized Fire Sense practices and reminded visitors to check current restrictions and local conditions before heading out. Even small sparks can start fast-moving wildfires in late-summer fuels.

What You Can Do to Stay Safe

On the Water

• Wear a life jacket: Utah law requires one for every person on board, and children 12 and under must wear one at all times.
• Take a boating education course: Required for youth operating personal watercraft and recommended for all.
• Don’t drink and boat: Alcohol is the second leading factor in fatal boating accidents. A BUI carries the same penalties as a DUI.

On the Trail

• Wear a helmet: Utah law mandates helmets for riders under 18, but adults should wear them too.
• Take an OHV safety course: Know your machine’s limits, navigate terrain wisely, and avoid risky maneuvers that can lead to rollovers.
• Don’t ride under the influence: OHV DUI arrests and alcohol-related fatalities are on the rise.
• Take an OHV Education Course. It’s required by anyone operating an OHV in Utah.

Know Before You Go

• Stay hydrated: Bring at least one gallon of water per person per day and salty snacks to replace electrolytes.
• Avoid the hottest hours: Hike early or late to avoid 100º+ heat.
• Use sun protection: Wear appropriate clothing and sunscreen.
• Check the weather and conditions before you go.
• Be prepared for crowds and delays during summer holidays and weekends.
• Pack your patience. Staff are working hard to keep parks safe and clean for everyone.

Use Your Fire Sense

• Be aware of fire restrictions and Red Flag days. 
• Drown, stir, check for heat, and repeat. Leave your campfire cold before leaving.
• When target shooting, be aware of any potential fire hazards.
• Maintain your vehicles. Check your tires for wear, and keep your trailer chains from dragging. Park all vehicles, including UTVs, away from dry vegetation.

“Expect crowds and hot temperatures this holiday weekend,” said Benjamin Meraz, park manager at Willard Bay State Park. “Pack extra water and salty snacks, shade, and sunscreen; hike at dawn or dusk when it’s cooler; and give yourself extra time at busy ramps and trailheads. A little patience goes a long way on a hot holiday weekend.”

For more safety information and resources, visit recreation.utah.gov, utahfiresense.org and stateparks.utah.gov.

Media can access b-roll and a recording of today’s briefing HERE.

Utah State Parks B-roll