As Memorial Day weekend kicks off Georgia’s boating season, state officials are issuing a strong call for water safety, urging boaters to wear life jackets, avoid alcohol behind the wheel, and adhere to all safety regulations. The plea comes as the state prepares for a surge in visitors to its lakes and rivers.

Mark McKinnon, Public Affairs Officer for the Georgia Department of Natural Resources Law Enforcement Division, emphasized the importance of planning ahead, especially concerning essential safety equipment. He noted that Memorial Day weekend is traditionally one of the busiest times on Georgia waterways. “A lot of people are anxious to get out in their boats, anxious to get out and swim in the swimming areas and enjoy the lakes and rivers,” McKinnon stated.

McKinnon reminded boaters that children under 13 are legally required to wear life jackets while on a moving vessel. He also stressed the importance of ensuring fire extinguishers are in working order and having a throwable flotation device on board. Law enforcement will be actively enforcing regulations, including the “100-foot law” and the “200-foot law” for wake boats, which dictate minimum distances from docks, marinas, and swimmers. Violations, often committed by jet ski operators, can create hazardous conditions due to large wakes. Boating under the influence (BUI) remains a critical concern.

In 2024 alone, 259 individuals were arrested for BUI in Georgia. McKinnon warned that impaired boaters will face immediate arrest and detention, emphasizing the risk to their own safety and the safety of others. “If we find you on the water and you’re impaired, you will have to go to jail for that because we can’t leave you on the water and jeopardize your safety or the safety of other people,” McKinnon said.

Tragically, 2024 saw 57 drowning incidents and 20 fatalities resulting from boating accidents on Georgia’s waterways.

McKinnon passionately urged both boaters and swimmers to wear properly fitting, Coast Guard-approved life vests to mitigate these risks and ensure a safe and enjoyable Memorial Day weekend on the water.