The public can help Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency officers start the 2015 boating season off on the right foot. One of the worst parts of a wildlife officer’s job is dealing with accidents and fatalities. Most fatalities in Region III happen in water-related accidents.
With the 2015 boating season underway, TWRA officers have a message to share. “One fatality is one too many” said Barry Baird, TWRA officer. “We ask everyone to wear their life vests, heed signs and be cautious on high usage days on the water. Help us reduce boating accidents and fatalities in 2015.”
The leading type of boating incident in 2014 was a collision with another vessel. Monetary damage reported in 2014 reached $1,117,929. This is actually down from 2013 statistics. 80 people were injured in boating related incidents in 2014 and 17 individuals lost their lives.
“This number should and can be zero. Please do your part” said Officer Baird.
TWRA officers will be kicking off the boating season on Friday, at 2p.m. at Harrison Bay State Park boat ramp. The public can stop by and say hi or ask a question.
For more information on boating in Tennessee visit tnwildlife.org.