Game wardens with Texas Parks and Wildlife will be on the lookout this Memorial Day Weekend, making sure folks are staying safe.
In 2018 there was a report by Texas game wardens on 29 boating fatalities took place across the state.
They will be working diligently to prevent tragedies that can cause boating accidents.
Here are a few things you need to know before you leave the loading dock.
Game wardens say life jackets must be on your boat at all times and need to be in a spot that is easy to reach.
Any child under the age of 13 is required to wear a life jacket the entire time while they are on a boat. The only exception for the child is if the boat is anchored and tied up.
Officers will also look for those operating their vessels under the influence.
They also want to remind boaters of using the safety ignition kill switch. Wardens say this is a feature that can help save lives.
Officers also say to keep an eye on weather conditions. High winds and choppy waters can turn into a dangerous situation.
“We would like everyone to be safe we want everyone out there having fun enjoying family time but we want them to be safe,” Texas game warden Lerrin Johnson said.
Also in 2018, Texas game wardens issued 571 citations for children not wearing life jackets.
Officers say they also issued 162 tickets for folks who were boating under the influence across Texas.
