GREGG COUNTY, Texas (KLTV) – As summer draws to a close, more and more East Texans flock to lakes and waterways for boating and swimming.

However, it is also a dangerous time when statistically there are more boating accidents and deaths.

As summer gives way to fall, East Texas waterways fill with families looking to spend a few more relaxing days on the water.

“Families will be out on the waterways. Life jackets will be checked – fishermen and jet skiers don’t expect anything, but we are prepared to enforce state law and boating laws if necessary,” said Gregg County Game Warden Todd Long.

With fewer weekends left and Labor Day weekend just around the corner, volume is the issue. Traditionally, there will be more boats and jet skis on our waterways.

According to Texas Parks and Wildlife, game wardens responded to 22 drowning accidents and 35 boating deaths in 2023.

“It could be that a boater is just going too fast, or they don’t have their navigation lights on, or something like that. There are a lot of factors. It’s the simple things that people sometimes just forget: life jackets, fire extinguishers, not drinking alcohol,” Long said.

In 70 percent of boating accidents resulting in death, the boat operator has not received boating safety training.

“Take a boating safety course if possible. There are all kinds of risk factors. We want people to slow down and pay attention to what’s happening,” the ranger said.

As an increase in boat traffic is expected, game wardens are issuing a simple warning.

“Take care of yourselves. Let’s all go home tonight,” Long said.

Game wardens will continue to patrol East Texas waterways and issue tickets to boaters for boating violations.

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