Marina Expert Releases Study on Marina Drownings

Marina and Boatyard Safety Expert, Carl F. Wolf, CMM, CMI, of Robson Forensic, has released a report on drowning incidents in marina waters. Wolf’s research focused on incidents of people unintentionally falling into the waters of a marina, not intentionally jumping in or swimming, and subsequently drowning.

He found that between 2008 and 2017 there had been 107 drowning cases within the United States. Over half of the victims were older than 45, and a majority were male. Drowning most commonly occurred when the victim fell from a dock while walking or fell while getting on or off a boat. Forty percent of the victims were alone when the incident took place.

Wolf’s research found a lack of guidelines, regulations or standards for placement of safety ladders or life rings at marina. Having this safety equipment would make getting out of the water much easier.

The research Wolf conducted led him to conclude that life rings and safety ladders should be readily available at all marinas; lone boaters embarking and disembarking from boats should use floatation devices in event of a fall; and children should always were life jackets when they are near any body of water.

A full copy of the study can be accessed here or by emailing cwolf@robsonforensic.com.