DNR Urges Boating Safety This Weekend

Since Independence Day falls on a Saturday this year, the Georgia Department of Natural Resources Law Enforcement Division says it is expecting waterways across the state to be busier than usual as boaters and swimmers take to the lakes and rivers for picnics, recreation and fireworks.

The DNR says rangers across the state will be working throughout the weekend, prepared to enforce the boating laws, educate on best safety practices, and do their best to see that everyone goes home safely.

With that in mind, rangers are asking people to remember what they call “the big 3.”

Those are wearing a life jacket, obeying and following navigation and other rules and laws, and not drinking and boating.

So far this year in Georgia, 43 boating incidents have resulted in 20 injuries and nine boating incident-related fatalities. Additionally, 20 people have drowned on public waters.

Other tips from the DNR include designating an operator, taking a boating safety course, wearing a life jacket, not overloading a boat with people or equipment, using navigation lights at all times, watching speed, not jumping the wake of another boat, paying attention to surroundings, and knowing operator age requirements.