Wichita ? Kansas parks officials are reminding boaters to wear life jackets and take other precautions heading into Memorial Day weekend.

Three people already have died in Kansas boating accidents this year, half as many as in all of 2010. Wildlife and Parks law enforcement assistant director Dan Hesket says Kansas averages just three boating deaths a year.

The Wichita Eagle reports that officials say most problems on the water could be avoided with a little common sense, such as refraining from alcohol and following other boating safety practices.

Game warden Dennis Zehr says boaters are getting smarter about alcohol consumption, with most appointing a designated driver.

Experts say even experienced boaters need to keep their guard up because accidents also happen when they get complacent.