LUBBOCK, Texas (KCBD) – At least seven drownings were reported across Texas in the past week, according to Lt. Aaron Sims with the Texas Game Wardens, who is calling on residents to prioritize water safety this Fourth of July weekend.
“It’s been a tough week. This last week in the state of Texas, we’ve had at least 7 drownings. That is not a typical weekend in the state of Texas. That’s a tragic weekend,” Sims said.
Life jackets required for children under 13
Sims said wearing a life jacket is one of the most important steps boaters can take before getting on the water.
“Your life jacket is like your seatbelt on the water. It’s not going to help you if you don’t have it on,” Sims said. “Anyone under the age of 13 has to wear one at all times, but we also encourage adults to wear them too.”
Sims added that for young children, size matters. Life jackets must be certified to the child’s weight and size.
“It cannot be an adult life jacket on a nine-year-old girl or a nine-year-old boy,” he said.
What to do if someone falls overboard
If someone falls out of a boat, Sims said bystanders should not jump in after them.
“You could be the next victim. It’s a very difficult situation. Tensions are high, but try and look for that type 4 throwable cushion. Have several of them. Maybe if it’s two people that fall out of the boat, and then you can toss it to them and get them to safety,” Sims said.
Sims also said boaters should have a fire extinguisher on board before leaving the dock.
Operation Dry Water underway this weekend
Game wardens across Texas are participating in “Operation Dry Water” this weekend, an enforcement effort focused on water safety compliance and sober boating.
“We’re all out there looking for — make sure people, do you have your water safety equipment? And are you designating a sober operator,” Sims said.
Sims said alcohol consumption on the water increases risk, particularly when an incident occurs unexpectedly.
“Alcohol-related consumption, over consumption on the water does not mix well with your survivability when you’re on the water,” he said.
Sims noted that boating while intoxicated carries the same legal consequences as driving a vehicle while intoxicated, including potential jail time.
“We’re not the no-fun police. We’re out there to make sure, hey, if you don’t have a good time, please have a good time. Do so in a safe manner. And we’re working in conjunction with our partners at DPS as well,” Sims said.
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