DNR asks for safe riding and boating this holiday weekend

Wisconsin DNR officials are reminding ATV and UTV riders that they’ll see increased law enforcement patrols over the Labor Day weekend.

The Think Smart Before You Start campaign runs Friday through Sunday, with conservation wardens and county recreation deputies watching for unsafe or illegal operation.

Officers will be focusing on things including impaired driving, speeding and the use of required safety equipment.

The DNR says there have already been 31 ATV and UTV fatalities and 66 self-reported nonfatal crashes in Wisconsin this year.

Officials are reminding riders to stay sober, wear helmets and seatbelts, obey speed limits and stop signs, and make sure they’re properly trained before riding.

And the Wisconsin DNR is also reminding boaters to put safety first during the Labor Day weekend, which is traditionally one of the busiest boating weekends of the year.

The DNR says 21 fatal boating incidents have been investigated in Wisconsin so far this year. In many cases, victims were not wearing life jackets.

Officials say wearing a properly fitted, Coast Guard-approved life jacket is the single most important thing boaters can do to prevent drowning.

Boaters are also urged to stay sober, slow down in crowded areas, pay attention to weather conditions and eliminate distractions.

And before leaving the water, boaters should drain their equipment and remove any aquatic plants from boats and trailers to help prevent the spread of invasive species.