Last year, 61 boaters died on Texas lakes and rivers, and officials say almost every one of those deaths could have been prevented.

This national safe boating week, they want boaters to remember some life saving rules of the water.

Sunday’s cool winds and overcast skies couldn’t keep Mark Donovan and his friends from hitting the water at Lake Travis, and Donovan says they’ll be keeping a close eye on other boaters.

“that’s really necessary because you have a lot of crazy ones out here that really aren’t familiar with the lake so you have to be aware of your surroundings and the lake’s low as well, so you have to be aware of the low spots,” said Mark Donovan

State and local officials hope everyone taking advantage of the weather at area lakes has safety uppermost in their minds.

During national safe boating week, they’re reminding everyone about some important tips, tips they say will help save someone’s life this boating season.

Never drink and boat, if you have alcohol on board, designate a driver.

Take a boater education course, studies show this can cut accident rates in half.

And last but certainly not least, always wear a life jacket.

For longtime boater Ruffan Barefoot, his Craig Cat catamaran doesn’t hit the waves until his safety check is complete.

“It’s not as much worried about you, as much as somebody else coming around you that could cause a problem,” said Barefoot.

The most important thing on board for Barefoot is a life jacket, something he says should always be within reach, whether you’re floating in a large barge or on a tiny raft.

“It can happen out here real quick and there’s nobody out here to really rescue you you’re on your own so a life jacket’s a must,” said Barefoot.