Minnesota Injury Facts, 2004 Edition: Recreational Injuries, Minnesota

Millions of Americans visit hospital emergency departments each year because of recreation- and sports-related injuries. Minnesotans have a passion for the outdoors and recreational safety is a year-round issue.

Boating Deaths
According to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, in 2003 Minnesota recorded 17 deaths in 14 incidents (compared to 30 deaths in 23 accidents in 2002). Minnesota's death rate was 2 deaths per 100,000 registered boats, compared to the national average of 5.7 /100,000. Life jackets were worn by only 2 out of the 17 victims (in one case, hypothermia was a contributing factor. In the other, the victim was struck by a boat while riding a personal watercraft). Alcohol use was reported in 4 out of 14 accidents (29%).

Non-Fatal Boating Incidents
Ninety-four non-fatal incidents were reported, involving 124 boats, 77 injuries and $618,850 in property damage. In 2002 there were 135 reportable non-fatal incidents involving 197 boats, 77 injuries and $407,242 in property damage.

Non-Boating Water Fatalities
In 2003 there were 32 drownings (compared to 42 in 2002). The most common activities:

• unexpected falls or entry into the water (40%)
• swimming / wading (38%)
• fell thru the ice (6%)