New Jersey Boating Deaths Rise in 2010

Coast Guard figures show New Jersey bucked a national trend of record low recreational boating deaths in 2010.

Eight people died in boating accidents in the Garden State last year, two more than in 2009. There have been no deaths this year.

Fatalities fell nationally to a record low of 672, four fewer than the previous low in 2004.

The Press of Atlantic City reports the Coast Guard believes boating safety courses and inspections helped reduce the number of deaths on the water.

However, the decline could reflect fewer boaters. The number of registered boats in the U.S. decreased 2 percent last year to 12.4 million.

The Coast Guard also reports the number of adults who wear life jackets is at an all-time low.