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Yahoo
3 days ago
- Yahoo
Memorial Day weekend records most boating while intoxicated charges in 5 years
TYLER, Texas (KETK) — Texas game wardens saw the highest number of boating while intoxicated charges and responded to several boating collisions this past Memorial Day weekend, the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) said. Disturbance call at Cascades subdivision leads to officer-involved shooting in Tyler Memorial Day weekend is a holiday meant to honor and celebrate the lives of military personal who lost their lives while fighting for our freedom. However, some Americans can take the celebration too far and when alcohol is combined with getting behind the wheel of a boat, it sometimes leads to bad outcomes. The Texas game wardens witnessed these outcomes this past Memorial Day weekend. 48 packages of hydroponic marijuana seized during East Texas traffic stop 'Our wardens don't just patrol the water, they serve wherever they're needed,' TPWD law enforcement director Colonel Ron VanderRoest said. 'This weekend was a good example of the depth of their commitment to public safety, responding in severe weather, major fire incidents and high-risk law enforcement situations.' The Texas game wardens took care of business as they conducted over 10,000 vessel checks along with issuing more than a thousand warnings and citations. Wardens also saw more serious charges including 53 boating while intoxicated, seven driving while intoxicated and 21 other arrest. Six boating collisions were reported with one them resulting in a death at Grapevine Lake. Two drownings were reported at Red River and Elmendorf Lake along with a 5-year-old girl who was recued after being blown away on an inflatable tube at the Falcon International Reservoir, according to TPWD. Online East Texas predator sentenced after sexual relationship with out-of-state minor 'When alcohol, crowded waterways and severe weather are in the mix, the risk of incidents can rise fast,' Texas Parks and Wildlife Department assistant commander for marine enforcement Cody Jones said. 'That's why we prioritize presence, visibility and swift response. We can't be everywhere at once, so we need the public to meet us halfway by boating responsibly. We are thankful for everyone who did over the holiday weekend.' Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Yahoo
22-05-2025
- Yahoo
Texas Game Wardens issue safety reminder ahead of busy Memorial Day Weekend
May 21—AUSTIN — As Memorial Day weekend approaches, Texas Game Wardens are gearing up for a busy summer on lakes, rivers and coastal waters to keep boaters safe. With more than 560,000 registered boats and an estimated 359,000 unregistered paddlecraft on Texas waterways, the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) is urging boaters to make wearing life jackets, sober operation of boats and common-sense safety their top priorities. Operators of personal watercraft should also be aware that these vessels have unique safety laws, including always wearing a life jacket and operating in daylight hours only. "Texas Game Wardens will be out Memorial Day weekend to ensure the public enjoys their time on the water responsibly," Cody Jones, TPWD assistant commander for marine enforcement, said in a news release. "But we also need boaters to take safety seriously. Many of the deaths and serious injuries that occurred in Texas waters last year were preventable." Game wardens will continue to patrol the waterways across the state throughout the summer season, working to prevent accidents and assist those in need. While game wardens are trained and equipped to respond quickly, many emergencies can be avoided altogether when boaters make informed, responsible choices. "Every life jacket worn and every sober operator behind the wheel contributes to a safer environment for everyone on the water," Erika Brooks, TPWD boating education specialist, said in the release. Safety Requirements and Reminders — Wear a life jacket: Required for children under 13 and essential for all. — Use the engine cut-off switch: It's the law and can help prevent serious injury. — Never operate a boat under the influence of drugs or alcohol: Penalties include fines and license suspension. — Take a boater safety course: Required for anyone born on or after Sept. 1, 1993, operating certain vessels. — Personal watercraft operators must wear a life jacket, follow the 50-foot rule and stay off the water after sunset. — Be weather-aware, communicate your plans, and avoid overcrowding your boat. — Avoid saltwater if you have open wounds as Vibrio bacteria occur naturally in Texas coastal waters. "Boater education is one of the most effective tools we have for reducing incidents," Jones added. "Of those involved in fatal or serious accidents, many had never taken a safety course. That's something every boater can control." To find certified safety courses, check boating laws, or review equipment requirements, visit the TPWD Boater Education Program.
Yahoo
20-05-2025
- Yahoo
National Safe Boating Week reminds Texans to stay alert on the water as summer approaches
TYLER, Texas (KETK)-With many Texans preparing to spend their Memorial Day weekend at the lake, National Safe Boating Week, which began on May 17, is providing reminders of how to safely operate a boat. National Safe Boating Week was created in 1958 by the National Safe Boating Council (NBSC) to promote safe boating practices. 'It's a little bit of a disappointment': Bullard ISD comments on middle school construction delay According to the Texas Parks & Wildlife Department (TWPD), Texas offers 191,000 miles of rivers and streams statewide, along with 1.7 acres of freshwater inland lakes. The amount of open water in Texas offers many opportunities for Texans to enjoy boating, fishing and water recreation but also causes them to remember to remain safe and vigilant while on the water. TWPD claimed that 169 boating incidents were reported last year, leading to 24 fatalities. Out of 24 of those deaths, 22 of the victims were not wearing life jackets at the time of their deaths. Additionally, the NBSC reported that the cause of death in three out of every four recreational boating fatalities was drowning and 87 percent of those who drowned were not wearing life jackets. 'These incidents aren't just statistics, they represent real people and real families forever changed by moments that could have been prevented,' TPWD Assistant Commander for Marine Enforcement Cody Jones said. 'Taking simple precautions, like wearing a life jacket, can be the key to making it home safely. It's a small step that can have a life-saving impact.' 'To the hamburgler, next time just use our online ordering': Mt Pleasant Burgers & Fries broken into, cash stolen The TWPD, along with the national safe boating council, has compiled a list of tips for boat drivers to follow to remain safe on the water. Always wear a life jacket; it's the law Never boat under the influence of alcohol. Maintain a safe speed and keep a proper lookout. Be cautious in low water or near submerged objects. Take a certified boater education course. For more information about National Safe Boating Week and NBSC programs, visit their website. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Yahoo
14-05-2025
- Climate
- Yahoo
Texas Game Wardens urge safety ahead of Safe Boating Week
May 14—AUSTIN — Texas Game Wardens and Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) urge boaters to make safety their top priority as they kick off National Safe Boating Week, May 17 — 23. With about 1.7 million surface acres of freshwater inland lakes, 4 million surface acres of saltwater and 191,000 miles of rivers and streams statewide, Texas offers opportunities for boating, fishing and water recreation. In 2024, Texas reported 169 boating incidents, with 24 water fatalities — 22 of those victims were not wearing life jackets. In addition, 78 boating incidents resulted in injuries affecting 100 people, a news release said. "These incidents aren't just statistics, they represent real people and real families forever changed by moments that could have been prevented," Cody Jones, TPWD assistant commander for marine enforcement, said in the release. "Taking simple precautions, like wearing a life jacket, can be the key to making it home safely. It's a small step that can have a life-saving impact." Texas is home to nearly 560,000 registered recreational boats, along with an estimated 359,000 unregistered vessels such as kayaks, paddleboards and small sailboats under 14 feet. With summer approaching, waterways will be crowded and safety should be a priority for everyone. Safety tips to keep in mind: — Always wear a life jacket; it's the law for kids under 13. — Use your boat's ignition safety switch; it's the law. — Never boat under the influence of alcohol. — Don't overload your vessel. — Maintain a safe speed and keep a proper lookout. — Be cautious in low water or near submerged objects. — Take a certified boater education course. — Leave a float plan with someone you trust. — Exercise special caution on personal watercraft. — Avoid saltwater if you have open wounds as vibrio bacteria occur naturally in Texas coastal waters. "National Safe Boating Week is more than a campaign — it's a reminder that fun on the water starts with responsibility," said Jones. "Whether you're paddling a kayak or operating a larger vessel, your actions affect everyone around you." As Texans head to the water this holiday weekend, Texas Game Wardens will be there not just to patrol, but to partner with the public in promoting safe and enjoyable experiences for all. Together, by making smart choices and looking out for one another, we can help ensure that every outing ends with everyone returning home safely. For more information or to enroll in a boater safety course, visit the TPWD Boater Education Program.
Yahoo
05-04-2025
- Climate
- Yahoo
Paddling safety tips
Apr. 4—AUSTIN — As paddlers take to Texas' lakes, rivers and coastal waters, the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) reminds everyone to prioritize safety while kayaking, canoeing and paddleboarding. With warmer weather drawing more outdoor enthusiasts to the water, following essential safety practices can prevent accidents and save lives. "Paddling is a great way to enjoy Texas' natural beauty, but preparation is key to staying safe," Erika Brooks, TPWD boating education training specialist, said in a news release. "Wearing a properly fitted life jacket, knowing the water conditions and planning ahead can make all the difference." Texas law requires all paddlers to have a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket on board, and children under 13 must wear one at all times while paddling. Paddlers should also check weather forecasts, understand water currents and carry a whistle or other sound-producing device to signal for help if needed. "Many paddling accidents involve unexpected hazards like strong currents, submerged obstacles, or sudden weather changes," said Cody Jones, Texas Game Warden assistant commander for marine enforcement. "Being aware of your surroundings and wearing your life jacket can mean the difference between a close call and a tragedy." Several recent tragedies serve as a stark reminder that preparation, awareness and proper safety equipment are essential for a day out on the water. "Over the past few weeks, we've seen a concerning rise in paddling-related fatalities in the Dallas-Fort Worth area," said Joseph Quintero, Texas Game Warden captain. "These unfortunate incidents highlight the importance of being prepared as conditions on the water can change quickly. No matter your experience level, it's important to not overestimate your abilities and take the proper precautions." Paddlers should also avoid alcohol while on the water, paddle in groups when possible and let someone know their float plan, including their expected return time and location and carry a white light if paddling between sunset and sunrise. As temperatures continue to rise, staying hydrated and using sun protection is also advised. Additional paddling safety tips can be found at
