A new and dangerous TikTok trend is spreading across the nation and boaters are being seriously injured or killed as a result. Known as the “boat jump challenge,” videos online show boaters jumping or purposely falling from moving boats. Hitting the water while a boat is moving is equivalent to hitting concrete after jumping from a multiple story building. As a result, this challenge is likely to cause broken bones, head injuries, or a broken neck. In addition, it seriously increases the chances of being hit with your own boat’s propeller or being run over by another boat in the water. Drowning is also a definite risk – trying to swim after any of these types of injuries would be very difficult or impossible.

Conclusion: No one is invincible, and the Boat Jump Challenge should not be tried by anyone.

As an alternative, the Sea Tow Foundation’s Life Jacket Challenge is an excellent way to have fun on a boat while being safe at the same time. Plus, it gives everyone a chance to win prizes valued up to $800! To participate in the Life Jacket Challenge, simply record yourself and your friends finding and putting on a life jacket in 30 seconds or less and then post it to the social media platform of your choice with the #STFLifeJacketChallenge to be entered to win. Everyone from lacrosse players to moms have taken the challenge! You can find their videos and more details here: www.boatingsafety.com/lifejacketchallenge

Let’s all have a safe and enjoyable boating season! See you on the water!