The Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks has released the numbers for its Memorial Day enforcement period on local waterways.
According to a release from the MDWFP, conservation officers made contact with over 6,800 boaters over the long weekend and issued a total of 416 citations. Citations included violations relating to personal flotation devices (PFDs), boat registration, and reckless operation of a vessel. Seven arrests were made for boating under the influence.
The total number of citations issued during the 2024 Memorial Day weekend increased compared to last year, with significant rises in PFD and boat registration violations.
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As summer continues and recreational activities on Mississippi’s waters increase, MDWFP officials are reminding all boaters to:
- Have at least one wearable USCG-approved PFD – also known as a life jacket – for each person on board.
- Ensure PFDs are in good and serviceable condition.
- Have appropriately sized PFDs for everyone aboard the vessel.
- Keep PFDs readily accessible in case of emergency.
“Wearing the correct PFD is a small act that can be the difference in life and tragedy while on the water,” MDWFP Boating Law Administrator Major Chris Clark said. “Often times, when you need it, it is too late.”
Conservation officers will continue to monitor boating activity throughout the summer to ensure that Mississippi’s waters remain safe for all.
