What's your float plan for Memorial Day weekend? TN agencies recommend these safety tips
The long-awaited, three-day holiday weekend held each year in May marks an unofficial start to summer and fun on the water for many.
For others, Memorial Day serves as a stark reminder of the importance of boating safety.
Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency officials say four incidents have resulted in five fatalities in 2025, one of which involved a paddle craft.
More: Missing 12-year-old Clarksville boy's body found in Red River after days-long search
One fatality was reported over the Memorial Day holiday weekend in 2024.
"We want to encourage everyone to always boat responsibly," TWRA Boating and Law Enforcement Division Lt. Col. Matt Majors said in a release.
"Our waterways are enjoyed by all types of vessels, both small and large. Please maintain a proper lookout at all times and ensure alcohol and drugs are not part of your float plan."
Tennessee offers boating enthusiasts several opportunities to enjoy its resources throughout the Volunteer State, the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency announced in a release.
In participation with the 2025 National Safe Boating Week, the agency is encouraging all boaters to brush up on boating safety skills now ahead of the summer boating season.
National Safe Boating Week is held the week before Memorial Day weekend and serves as the annual kick-off for the Safe Boating Campaign, a global awareness effort that encourages responsible boating.
According to the release, boating partners across the United States and Canada, including the TWRA and other local partner organizations, have teamed up to emphasize safe boating practices like wearing life jackets and educate the boating community on options that are lightweight and comfortable.
The Nashville Office of Emergency Management and Nashville Fire Department say they want everyone to be safe over the holiday weekend and prioritize boating safety.
"Whether you're hitting the road, spending time on our Metro Nashville Davidson County waterways, or gathering with family and friends, it's essential to stay mindful of safety," Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Davidson County Community Services Manager and Public Information Officer Joseph Pleasant said in a release.
"For those who plan to enjoy the beautiful waterways this weekend, boating safety is a top priority. Always wear a life jacket and ensure that all passengers do the same."
Before hitting the water, officials encourage everyone to create a float plan.
Here are some TWRA recommended safety tips for boaters:
Boating safety courses offer valuable knowledge and on-water experience with many options for novice to experienced boaters.
For more about TWRA boating safety education, visit https://www.tn.gov/twra/boating/boating-education.html.
Schedule a free vessel safety check with local U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary or U.S. Power Squadrons to make sure all essential equipment is present, working and in good condition.
Always let someone on shore know the trip itinerary, including operator and passenger information, boat type and registration and communication equipment on board.
Ensure everyone on board wears a life jacket every time. A stowed life jacket is no use in an emergency.
Use an engine cut-off device, or engine cut-off switch, to stop the boat's engine if the operator unexpectedly falls overboard.
Always check the forecast before departing on the water and frequently during the excursion.
Nearly a quarter of all reported boating accidents last year were caused by operator inattention or improper lookout.
Be familiar with the area, local boating speed zones and always travel at a safe speed.
Don't drink and drive, a boat that is. A BUI, or boating under the influence, is involved in one-third of all recreational boating fatalities. Always designate a sober skipper.
Stay in touch with others by having more than one communication device that works when wet. VHF radios, emergency locator beacons, satellite phones and cell phones can all be important devices in an emergency.
Katie Nixon can be reached at knixon@gannett.com.
This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: Tennesseans hit the water Memorial Day, agencies urge boater safety
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