Have Fun, Be Safe on Area Lakes

 
Photo credit: Gary A. Edwards

Texas Parks and Wildlife provides boating regulations
and safety tips on the boating section of their site.

In addition to the basic information below, there
are specific guidelines for both anglers and hunters
on the site.
  • State law requires a wearable-type life jacket
    (Types I, II, or III) for each person on board.
    Life jackets must be U.S. Coast Guard approved.
  • Children under 13 years of age must wear a
    life jacket on a Class A or Class 1 motorboat
    while underway.
  • It is recommended that non-swimmers always
    wear a life jacket on the water. In addition, a
    Type IV throwable-type flotation device is
    required on boats 16 feet in length and longer.
  • State law prohibits intoxicated persons
    (.08% BAC) from operating a boat.
  • Check the weather and give a "float plan" to
    a friend before departing.
  • See the Texas Water Safety Digest for details
    on specific required and recommended safety
    equipment needed on various types of vessels.


RECREATION