Lake enforcement officers who were out this holiday weekend told Channel 9 they want more people to wear a life jacket even though it's not required by law.
Wildlife officials said last year there were a total of 17 boating deaths across the state. None of those victims were wearing a life jacket.
Officer Sampson Parker, with N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission, said the jackets are only required to be worn by children ages 13 and under. But, he said, they could have a huge impact on adults in the event of an accident.
Parker said there is a push to change North Carolina's law about life jackets. He said the sentiment is growing in the state.
"There's going to be a collision. If you hit your head, you can be the best swimmer (but) you are knocked out. It won't matter," he said.