Tennessee Boating Safety

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BOATING SEASON KICKS OFF THIS WEEKEND
by Steve McCadams
www.stevemccadams.com
May 23rd, 2008

You can bank on it being a busy boating weekend here on Kentucky Lake.

Folks are buzzing about high gas prices but odds are the Paris Landing sector will be buzzing with recreational boaters ready to get the summer season started.

It appears good weather is in the forecast too so that should stimulate activity for everyone from fishermen to campers. Expect pontoons to be on the prowl as jet skis dart and water skiers skate across the waves.

Traditionally, the Memorial Day weekend marks the official start of the boating season in Tennessee. For many, this will be the first time to have the boat in the water. TWRA urges all Tennessee boats to take a few extra minutes to review the basics, which may be the key to having a fun, safe day on the water.

TWRA wants to remind all boaters to:

· Have a wearable life jacket for every person onboard.

· If your boat is 16 feet or longer, there must be a type IV throwable device onboard.

· Have onboard a fire extinguisher if you have enclosed fuel compartments or cabins.

· Anyone under the age of 13 must wear a life jacket at all times while the boat is underway – drifting is considered underway.

· Any boat/pwc operator born after January 1, 1989 must have the TWRA – issued wallet Boating Safety Education Certificate if operating alone.

· Keep alcohol to a minimum – choose a designated boat operator.

· Make sure the boat/pwc registration is current and onboard.

Steve McCadams is a professional hunting and fishing guide here in the Paris Landing area. He has also contributed many outdoor oriented articles to various national publications.

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