CRISP COUNTY, Ga. (WALB) - Memorial Day weekend is the unofficial start to summer boating.

As a reminder, the Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR) joined forces with local and state agencies to promote safety.

On Thursday, May 21, 2026, DNR joined forces with the Georgia Department of Public Safety and the governor’s office of public safety to host the annual “Belts & Jackets” Safety Tour. The tour traveled the state, partnering with local agencies.

DNR officials stressed the importance of safety on Georgia waterways. Over the Memorial Day weekend, DNR agents will increase patrols on major Georgia waterways. “Have a good time, but be cautious,” said DNR agent Ashton Hughes.

DNR agents will focus their efforts on preventing DUI’s on the water. In 2025, 243 people were arrested for Boating under the influence. Hughes said, “We are just trying to keep the lake safe, so if you’re drinking, don’t be driving a boat.”

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While DUI enforcement will be a concern over the Memorial Day weekend, DNR asks boaters to be prepared to be safe on the water. In Georgia, a boat must have a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket for each passenger.

Children 13 and under must wear a life jacket anytime while on a boat. A fire extinguisher and throwable flotation device are also required under Georgia law.

According to DNR officials, 66 people drowned in Georgia in 2025. In that same year, 10 people died in water accidents. 122 boating incidents resulted in 92 injuries.

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