Texas is ramping up enforcement on lakes and rivers this Fourth of July weekend as state officials report a sharp rise in boating-related deaths.
So far this year, there have been 21 boating fatalities and 38 drownings—a 75% increase over the same time last year, according to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department. Game wardens will be out in force during the holiday weekend to patrol for intoxicated and unsafe boaters.
Officials say the July 4th weekend is historically one of the deadliest times on Texas waterways, and they’re urging boaters to wear life jackets, follow safety rules, and avoid alcohol. Boating while intoxicated carries the same legal consequences as driving drunk, including possible jail time, fines, and license suspension.
Nearly half of all boating deaths last year in Texas involved alcohol or drugs. State officials say increased patrols and water-based checkpoints are part of a broader effort to keep the holiday safe.
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