Be safe on land and water this holiday weekend

Published 8:00 am Saturday, June 30, 2018

This weekend, Georgia’s new hands-free law takes effect, barring the use of cellphones while driving. And while thousands of motorists will be adjusting to the new law on land, thousands more will take to the water this weekend, so we mustn’t forget the laws already in place to keep everyone safe on the lakes, particularly with the holiday weekend. 

Just as we stressed the importance of driving safety and the dangers of distractions behind the wheel, as a lake community, we need to place the same level of emphasis on safety on the water. 

With 417 miles of shoreline on Lake Sinclair and 374 miles of shoreline on Lake Oconee, the serene and inviting waters of the lakes add to the uniqueness of life in this region, drawing thousands of tourists and weekenders every year. But with an influx of visitors on the water during peak season, taking precautions and following rules and regulations is vital.

According to the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, children ages 1 to 4 years and 15 to 24 years had a significantly higher risk for drowning than Georgians in other age groups — this includes all bodies of water — primarily lakes, rivers and pools. 

Georgia DNR includes a list of water safety tips on its website: 

•If you are a moderate swimmer — always wear a life jacket. Lake Sinclair has established locations where lake-goers can have their life jackets checked by DNR.

•Alcohol and swimming don’t mix. 

•Always swim with a buddy, never swim alone.

•Parents should always keep a close eye on children at or on the water. 

Swim in supervised areas only, and remember that drop-offs or other underwater hazards may not be detectable from above the surface.

Each year the Georgia DNR makes a concerted effort to enforce BUI laws and stress the importance of boating safety and alcohol use. An added danger of boating under the influence is that boaters often return to a landing at the end of the day, then drive home impaired on the roadways.

Remember that everyone on the water under age 13 is also required to wear a life jacket while riding in a boat.

Operators of motorized watercraft or boats must be at least 16 and have proper identification on board. There are boat size requirements for operators who are under the age of 16 that should be noted and can be found on the Georgia DNR website. Maintaining a safe boating speed and distance from others is key, as is the importance of remembering that alcohol and operating a motorcraft on the water simply do not mix. Just as with operating a vehicle on the roadway, operating a boat requires a sober and alert driver.

Most public boat ramps have rules and laws posted near the boat drop-in location — and they are posted for a reason and meant to be followed. Many boat ramps also have a boating safety brochure available. Be aware of your surroundings, not only in the water but also along shorelines and near docks and ramps. 

The Georgia DNR Wildlife Resources Division also offers extensive information on its website to help people understand Georgia’s boating regulations, find boat ramp locations throughout the state, discover available boating education opportunities and learn how to register a boat. Information can be found at www.georgiawildlife.com. 

As area waters start bustling with summer activity, exercising responsibility — whether boating, swimming or simply enjoying the outdoors — ensures a safe experience and a safe summer.