NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — As the weather starts to warm up, more and more people will hit the water, but the Tennessee Wildlife Resource Agency wants everyone to stay safe as they head outside.
During Tennessee's safer-at-home order, officers have seen a significant increase in people out on the water. Even though it just now starting to get nice outside, unfortunately TWRA has already seen 10 fatalities on waterways across the state.
Josh Landrum with TWRA says with the safer-at-home order, more new people are out trying new things. Officers are out patrolling to make sure everyone has a life jacket, throw cushion, and a fire extinguisher for them to stay safe while boating. He says everyone should learn about the water before they go out and make sure weather conditions are safe for them to have fun.
“Most of our fatalities so far in our area have been due to paddling sports, such as canoes and kayaks,” Landrum said. "That's why we definitely stress if you're in a canoe or kayak, wear that life jacket, that will help you go home safely.”
Landrum also wanted to stress the importance of not driving a boat while drinking. Everyone should designate a driver while out on the water.
