So, you're going out on the water this weekend. Whether you're going on a boat or just paddling around, first responders from the Office of Emergency Management, the TWRA and the Army Corps of Engineers have some suggestions for those taking part in water recreation.
- Have a wearable life jacket for every person on the water. Life jackets should be coast guard certified.
- Anyone under the age of 13 must wear a life jacket at all times while the boat away from the dock.
- If you're on a boat longer than 16 feet, there needs to be a throwable flotation device onboard. (The TWRA calls this a Type IV throwable)
- Boats need to have a fire extinguisher on board.
- Boat operators born after January 1, 1989 must have a TWRA-issued Boating Safety Education Certificate.
- If members of the boating party are drinking, there needs to be a designated driver.
- OEM officials suggest keeping your a look out for changing weather conditions. Get a weather app or a NOAA weather radio.
- Beware of other people on the water, whether on a boat or in a kayak or something similar, Memorial Day kicks off the boating season. More people are out there.
- Maintain a safe speed and obey "No Wake" areas.
