Ex-NFL star Torrey Smith is firing back at the people mocking him for wearing a life vest on a recent fishing trip … saying, “I’m going to do my part to make sure I make it home.”

Several fellow NFLers like Warren Sapp and Kamu Grugier-Hill commented on Smith’s IG post on Thursday … questioning why the athlete would bother wearing the vest.

“To the folks that clowned me about my life jacket (I know most were jokes) this is a serious issue,” Smith said on Friday. “I’m new to boating and I respect the water so I’m going to be safe.”

The Super Bowl champ — who points out he knows how to swim — says that ability alone can’t prevent drownings … and he’s not willing to take the risk.

Of course, Smith’s post comes days after Naya Rivera‘s tragic death … when the actress accidentally drowned in Lake Piru after swimming with her son. Officials say she wasn’t wearing a life vest.

Smith also shared an article breaking down stats on life vests and why they’re so critical … even if people are confident on a boat.

“Nothing is promised but I’m going to do my part to make sure I make it home.”

Bottom line — wear a damn life jacket, people!!