Game wardens from the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) have issued a warning to those celebrating the Fourth of July out on the lakes to be mindful and sober while boating.
Dallasites often enjoy Independence Day partying with family and friends on area lakes such as Lewisville Lake, Lake Ray Hubbard, Joe Pool Lake, and others.
However, TPWD has issued a statement warning would-be party boaters to exercise caution and safe boating practices.
“Simple steps to take before heading out on the water include wearing a life jacket, learning to swim, using the ignition safety switch, checking weather reports, and participating in a boater education class,” Texas game wardens said in a news release.
The consumption of alcohol has also led to serious safety concerns.
On the Fourth of July last year, wardens reported giving out more than 1,500 citations and nearly 2,000 warnings for boat safety law violations. Moreover, a total of 49 people were also arrested for Boating While Intoxicated (BWI).
To combat this issue, TPWD game wardens have partnered with the United States Coast Guard and other elements of law enforcement in an initiative called Operation Dry Water.
During the nationwide program, organized by the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators, “law enforcement officers will be on heightened alert for those violating boating under the influence laws.”
“Law enforcement agencies that participate in Operation Dry Water are asked to increase BUI enforcement during the targeted enforcement weekend of Operation Dry Water, July 1-3,” the group explained.
Additionally, law enforcement will work with “businesses and recreational boaters to spread the message and raise awareness of the dangers of boating under the influence during the heightened enforcement weekend and all year long.”
Cody Jones, the TPWD assistant commander for marine enforcement, emphasized the danger of drinking while boating.
“If you’re operating a boat under the influence of drugs or alcohol, you’re putting people at risk,” he explained. “Sadly, we see it time and time again — holiday celebrations that end in accidents or fatalities caused by unsafe boating practices.”
Similarly, Kimberly Sorensen, the TPWD boater education manager, added, “We want everyone to have a safe and enjoyable holiday weekend. … Make a plan to be safe on and around the water by wearing life jackets, avoiding alcohol, and taking a boater education course.”
Fireworks shows will light the metroplex on the Fourth of July, as reported by The Dallas Express. Some will take place over area lakes, such as the Fireworks Extravaganza planned over Grapevine Lake at 9:30 p.m.