NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN) — Labor Day is a big day to be on the water. TWRA officers step up enforcement to keep everyone safe.
"It seems that the numbers are down this year," said Brad Petty, TWRA wildlife officer.
Petty is one of many wildlife officers keeping a careful watch over Old Hickory and Percy Priest Lakes. "Eight officers today. Two per boat. Eight officers on this lake and eight officers on Percy Priest Lake."
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They have made a few arrests this weekend, but so far, the TWRA says the numbers are looking better this year than last: 16 boating-related deaths this year statewide, compared to 20 this same time last year.
"I would say we are seeing less just because of the education that is being put out there these days," said Petty. "Instead of writing citations to these people, we are giving them a learning lesson to teach them what to do and advise them of those boater-education classes."
Also, teaching drivers not to boat under the influence. A new law started last summer making a B.U.I. similar to a D.U.I., meaning jail for 48 hours and a fine.
The TWRA has reported 130 B.U.I. incidents so far this year. Petty said boaters are getting the message and changing their behavior. "A lot of people we run across this year are having sober drivers as well. If that's hiring a captain or making sure they have a sober friend, that's what we've run across a lot."
There have been 37 serious injuries on Tennessee's waterways in 2024. Officers say that the key to bringing those numbers down is following some basic safety guides. Kids under 12 have to wear a life vest, and one must be available for every adult on board as well. Those rules apply whether you're on a 30-foot boat or a 9-foot kayak.
"A lot of people get confused that it's not a boat because it doesn't have a motor, but it's still classified as a vessel in the state of Tennessee, and they have to have enough life jackets per person on board."
Some other tips: before you leave the dock, double-check that the lights work, the gas is filled and someone back on land knows where you are in case of an emergency.
