BRYAN, Texas (KBTX) – Memorial Day weekend is one of the busiest times of year at Lake Bryan, and Texas Game Wardens are making sure it stays safe for everyone on and off the water.
State Game Warden David Thorne, assigned to Brazos County, spent the holiday weekend patrolling the lake. He says the crowds are manageable so far, but there are a few things every boater and swimmer should keep in mind before hitting the water.
Warden Thorne says these are the basics every boat needs to have on board:
Life jackets — one serviceable life jacket for every person on boardType IV throwable flotation device — a ring buoy or square throwable you can toss to someone who goes overboardHorn or whistle — to alert other boaters or signal for helpFire extinguisherProper registrationKill switch — required to be physically attached to the boat’s operator (or on them if it’s Bluetooth)
It might feel like a relaxed holiday, but Warden Thorne says Game Wardens are actively watching for impaired operators.
“Boating while intoxicated comes with the same penalty as driving while intoxicated,” Warden Thorne said.
Not boating? You still need to stay aware. Warden Thorne’s advice for swimmers:
Know your surroundings — boat traffic picks up significantly on holiday weekendsKeep a life jacket nearby — it’s not required for swimmers, but it could save your life if something goes wrongStay hydrated — heat and alcohol are a dangerous combination; drink waterWatch your kids closely
“Drowning does not take long, and it’s silent,” Thorne said
If you were born on or after September 1, 1993, Texas law requires you to complete a certified boater education course before operating a vessel. You can find approved online and in-person courses through the Texas Parks & Wildlife Department.
Warden Thorne wants people to know that patrols aren’t meant to put a damper on the fun: “We’re just trying to keep everybody safe.”
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