Note: the following item was submitted for posting by the Georgia Department of Natural Resources Law Enforcement Division. – KtE
School is almost out, and summer is around the corner. That means Georgia boaters are about to hit the waterways.
Whether you are going to be on the rivers or lakes there is a few things Georgia Game Wardens want you to remember.
No matter what you are riding in or on there needs to be a lifejacket on board, or on you depending on a few circumstances. Lifejackets or “PFDs” are required to be on board every vessel and one for each passenger on board. Lifejackets are required to be worn by every child under the age of 13 when they are on board a moving vessel.
When purchasing a lifejacket or doing a safety check on your vessel, thoroughly inspect your lifejackets for a couple of things.
Make sure your lifejacket is Coast Guard Approved (CGA), check for holes or tears, and make sure it is the proper size for yourself and your passengers.
If you enjoy boating at night make sure all the lights on your boat are working properly before doing so. Many boating accidents occur each year around the state after the hours of sunset due to boat lights not functioning properly or not being used by the boat operator.
Finally boating under the influence is a very real thing. If you are under the influence of alcohol or drugs do not operate a vessel. Treat your boat as you would a car for your own safety and others around you.
Georgia Game Wardens work many boating accidents involving one or more boats and sometimes fatalities due to an operator being under the influence.
If you are caught operating a boat under the influence you will be taken to jail and be facing a minimum fine of $500 and a loss of boating privileges.
We hope you enjoy your and do so safely!
For more information about boating in the state of Georgia please visit us online at https://gadnrle.org/boating-rules-regulations.
