Chatham County Marine Patrol urges caution as busiest boating season ends with Labor Day

by Cam McCann

SAVANNAH, Ga. (WTOC) - Labor Day weekend marks the end of the busiest boating season in Chatham County, according to the county’s marine patrol, which is advising boaters to take added precaution and preparation.

Sergeant Daniel Walker with Chatham County Marine Patrol said the excitement of getting out on the water can cause boaters to overlook basic safety measures.

“They overlook the small things,” Walker said.

Walker said the health of each passenger should also be a top concern for boaters.

“Dehydration is a big thing out there, people don’t understand when you’re out there you’re keeping cool by getting in the water and getting out. You don’t realize you’re getting dehydrated,” Walker said.

Riding along with marine patrol

Corporal Heath Wynn said marine patrol typically makes between eight and 15 stops or issues violations during a holiday weekend, or about one every 30 minutes.

Wynn said some of the most common citations are issued to people going too fast within 100 feet of the shore. He said alcohol on board is another frequent problem.

“It’s not illegal to have beer and alcohol in the boat, you just can’t be intoxicated. We have a problem with that because a lot of times alcohol and boating go hand in hand but if you’re in the cabin it’s best to stay sober and not touch it,” Wynn said.