Abstract: The subject of the study is safety at water bodies. Ensuring safety at water bodies requires a systematic approach that includes training and prevention. Informing the public about potential risks and rules of behavior on the water plays a key role in reducing the number of incidents and saves lives. Regular educational campaigns and awareness-raising activities allow to form a responsible attitude towards one's own health and safety. Coordination of the efforts of the state, business and public organizations creates the necessary conditions for the implementation of comprehensive programs aimed at protecting the population on water bodies. This approach minimizes risks, ensures readiness to respond in emergency situations and contributes to improving overall safety on the water. When writing the article, we used statistical data from the Ministry of Emergency Situations of Russia, rules and recommendations for ensuring water safety, rules of conduct in extreme situations on the water, as well as regulatory documentation establishing legal instruments for regulating safety of the water transport. One of the key aspects of this study is to identify existing gaps in the legislative framework governing safety of the water transport. Despite the existence of a number of regulatory legal acts, many aspects remain insufficiently regulated. The analysis of existing gaps in the legal regulation requires a comprehensive approach to the study of public relations in this area. Not only government agencies and regulatory organizations play an important role in this process, but also citizens' associations, professional associations and non-governmental organizations. The conclusion of this study highlights the need to review and improve the current rules and regulations governing safety of the water transport. It is obvious that a comprehensive understanding and interaction of all stakeholders will create the basis for the development of a more secure and reliable system. Legislation should take into account both the current realities of the use of water resources and the prospects for their change in the future.