The Georgia Department of Natural Resources has reported a concerning start to the Memorial Day weekend, with 12 boating under the influence (BUI) arrests across the state and two boating accidents — luckily, no injuries were recorded. The initial report covers boating activity from May 24 through May 26, with more data expected soon.
Boating Under the Influence: A Spike in Region 4
The 12 BUI arrests weren’t spread evenly across Georgia. Region 4, covering Metter and surrounding areas, topped the list with five incidents. Region 1 (Acworth) saw three arrests, Region 3 (Thomson) had two, and Regions 5 (Albany) and 6 (Brunswick) reported one each.
In a telling case on the Savannah River in Region 4, game wardens caught a man who had fallen into the water while trying to trailer his boat. Despite stopping the engine, the vessel filled with water and sank near a boat landing. The operator swam to shore but was arrested for boating under the influence.
This incident isn’t just a wake-up call; it’s a stark reminder that alcohol and watercraft don’t mix. The fact that the man managed to swim ashore safely is lucky, but such scenarios could easily turn deadly.
Crashes on the Water: Two Accidents, No Injuries
Boating accidents were also on the radar over the weekend. Near Jekyll Creek in Glynn County, a jet-drive dual-console boat crashed into the Jekyll Jetties around 11 p.m. The boat stopped roughly 20 yards into a marsh on an oyster bed. Thankfully, all four passengers were okay, with no injuries reported.
The other accident was the sunken vessel on the Savannah River mentioned earlier. While that one turned more dramatic with the boat going under, no injuries came from it either. These accidents show just how quickly things can go sideways on the water, especially when alcohol is involved or when navigational errors occur late at night.
Why These Numbers Matter: Safety First on Georgia’s Waters
Boating is a popular way to kick off the summer season, but the dangers can’t be overstated. The Georgia Department of Natural Resources and local officials have been pushing safety messages hard, reminding boaters to wear life jackets and avoid alcohol. Despite these efforts, 12 BUI arrests is a high number for just a weekend.
Boating under the influence carries risks similar to drunk driving on roads — slowed reactions, poor judgment, and dangerous behavior. And unlike a car, a boat out on open water offers no real protection if something goes wrong.
What to Watch for Next: Updated Memorial Day Data Coming Soon
This preliminary report covers May 24 through May 26. Officials will release a more comprehensive update soon, including the full weekend figures. It will be interesting, and hopefully reassuring, to see if these numbers hold steady or if the holiday weekend sees more incidents.
The Memorial Day weekend often draws large crowds to lakes, rivers, and coastal spots around Georgia. That means patrols are working overtime, keeping an eye on everything from safety gear compliance to illegal boating behavior.
One thing’s clear: authorities won’t tolerate drinking and boating, and arrests like these send a message.
A Reminder to Boaters: Play It Safe Out There
It might be tempting to kick back and enjoy a few drinks on the water — but it’s a risk that can turn deadly. Wearing a life jacket, watching your speed, and staying sober are basics that can make all the difference.
With the summer ahead, it’s worth repeating: the fun is only fun if everyone gets home safe.
