Texans Embrace Safe Boating: Less Violations, and Less Fatalities

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The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department just released the latest numbers of how we Texans behaved and practiced safety on our area Texas lakes. We are doing far better than in the past few years. That said, the Game Wardens would like to remind us that we must always practice water safety.

Game Wardens said they saw a remarkable reduction in violations and citations issued during this past holidays in comparison to years past. Furthermore, there were fewer boating accidents and more people practicing boating, swimming, and lake safety.

Over 350 game wardens conducted 10,218 safety checks on boats and issued 62 fewer citations than last year. Texas Game Warden Colonel Chad Jones attributed this decrease to factors including boating safety awareness outreach expansion.

Game Warden Colonel Chad Jones said “First off, I want to commend those who conducted themselves safely and responsibly” he went on to say “Our game wardens have focused on increasing boating safety awareness over the past few year, and I think we are starting to see the fruits of that efforts pay off." Sourse: TPWD Col. Chad Jones press release

Unfortunately, wardens responded to 15 boating accidents and six drownings that occurred on the Rio Grande, Lake Sommerville, Grapevine, Blanco River, Cedar Creek Lake, and Lake Buchanan all in Texas.

Safe Swimming Tips From TPWD:

Everyone must learn how to swim. Take lessons.
Supervise all children at all times. Keep an eye on them at all times.
Drink water to stay hydrated. During the hot weather drink more water.
Do not swim alone. No matter how experienced you are NEVER swim alone.
Assess your personal skills. Don't chances or challenges when swimming.
Swim in designated areas only. Find swimming spots designed for humans.

The Department is also offering these other safety tips to make going to the lake, river, or coast more enjoyable. Just tap on the links below.

For more information about water safety, visit the Texas Parks & Wildlife Department Water Safety.

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Texans Master Lake Safety: Game Wardens Issue Vital Reminder!

Safe Swimming Tips From TPWD:

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