All across the state of Texas, Game Wardens will be dedicating extra water safety patrol hours for the 4th of July weekend. Locally, Buffalo Springs and Lake Alan Henry will be a priority for Lubbock district wardens, as they are a popular destination for recreating during this week.
“Our main goal this weekend is to ensure that everyone has the ability to enjoy themselves in a safe environment,” said J. Aaron Sims, a local Texas Parks & Wildlife Department game warden.
“Specifically, I encourage anyone who is considering boating as an option this weekend, and they plan on drinking alcohol, that they designate a sober operator. A ‘Boating While Intoxicated’ charge is weighted just the same as ‘Driving While Intoxicated,’ and if an individual has a previous conviction for either violation, the punishment would be enhanced,” Sims said.
The public can report anonymously anyone that they suspect to be operating a motorboat while intoxicated, by calling Operation Game Thief, at 1-800-792-GAME (4263).
(News release from Texas Parks & Wildlife Department in Lubbock)
