Waco, TX (FOX 44) – Memorial Day Weekend is one of the busiest times outdoors across Texas.
From lakes and rivers to campgrounds and backroads, Game Wardens see thousands of families heading out to enjoy the long weekend. With the extra traffic on the water, safety becomes just as important.
Memorial Day Weekend brings a major increase in boating traffic, with both locals and out-of-town visitors crowding lakes and marinas. Before leaving the dock, make sure you have all your water safety equipment.
“That’s life jackets, a fire extinguisher, throw cushions, a horn whistle, or a sound-producing device,” Texas Game Warden Michael Serbanic listed. “You need your certificate of number and then check and make sure if your boat’s equipped with a kill-switch that you have a good lanyard that you can attach.”
Texas Game Wardens stress the importance of having enough properly-fitted life jackets on board, especially for children.
“One of the most important rules is to keep our kids safe,” Serbanic emphasized. “If you have a kid on board a boat that’s under the age of 13, they’re required to have a life jacket on. So let’s make sure they’re buckled up and that they’re safe.”
Texas Game Wardens across the state will increase patrols on lakes. If you’re pulled over on the water, Game Wardens say you should have these items ready and on hand.
“You’re going to be asked for your water safety equipment, you’re going to be asked if you can produce a certificate, a number for the vessel, and make sure the registration is good,” Serbanic stated. “And most importantly, we will be looking for any signs of intoxication. So if you’re going to have an alcoholic beverage this weekend, please have a designated driver. Don’t drive a boat and drink this weekend, please.”
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