What's your float plan for Memorial Day weekend? TN agencies recommend these safety tips

• National Safe Boating Week is held the week before Memorial Day weekend each year.
• The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency encourages all boaters to brush up on boating safety skills now.
• Check out the top ten recommended safety tips.

The three-day Memorial Day holiday weekend marks an unofficial start to summer and fun on the water for many.

For others, Memorial Day serves as a stark reminder of the importance of boating safety.

Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency officials say four separate incidents have resulted in five fatalities on state waters so far in 2025. One of them involved a paddle craft.

More: Missing 12-year-old Clarksville boy's body found in Red River after days-long search

One fatality was reported over the Memorial Day holiday weekend in 2024, further highlighting the extra need for caution while enjoying the water.

"We want to encourage everyone to always boat responsibly," TWRA Boating and Law Enforcement Division Lt. Col. Matt Majors said in a release.

"Our waterways are enjoyed by all types of vessels, both small and large. Please maintain a proper lookout at all times and ensure alcohol and drugs are not part of your float plan."

Tennessee offers boating enthusiasts several opportunities to enjoy its resources throughout the Volunteer State. In the Nashville-area, specifically, there's Percy Priest Lake, Old Hickory Lake and the Cumberland and Red Rivers, to name a few options.

In participation with the 2025 National Safe Boating Week, TWRA is encouraging all boaters to brush up on boating safety skills now ahead of the summer boating season.

TWRA and other local partner organizations throughout the U.S. and Canada have teamed up to emphasize safe boating practices like wearing life jackets and educate the boating community on options that are lightweight and comfortable, according to the release.

The Nashville Office of Emergency Management and Nashville Fire Department are also prioritizing safety.

"Whether you’re hitting the road, spending time on our Metro Nashville Davidson County waterways, or gathering with family and friends, it’s essential to stay mindful of safety," Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Davidson County Community Services Manager and Public Information Officer Joseph Pleasant said in a release.

"For those who plan to enjoy the beautiful waterways this weekend ... Always wear a life jacket and ensure that all passengers do the same."

Before hitting the water, officials encourage everyone to create a float plan.

Here are some TWRA recommended safety tips for boaters:

Take a safety course

Boating safety courses offer valuable knowledge and on-water experience with many options for novice to experienced boaters.

For more about TWRA boating safety education, visit https://www.tn.gov/twra/boating/boating-education.html.

Check equipment

Schedule a free vessel safety check with local U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary or U.S. Power Squadrons to make sure all essential equipment is present, working and in good condition.

Share your plans

Always let someone on shore know the trip itinerary, including operator and passenger information, boat type and registration and communication equipment on board.

Wear a life jacket

Ensure everyone on board wears a life jacket every time. A stowed life jacket is no use in an emergency.

Cut the engine

Use an engine cut-off device, or engine cut-off switch, to stop the boat’s engine if the operator unexpectedly falls overboard.

Be weather aware

Always check the forecast before departing on the water and frequently during the excursion.

Stay vigilant

Nearly a quarter of all reported boating accidents last year were caused by operator inattention or improper lookout.

Slow down

Be familiar with the area, local boating speed zones and always travel at a safe speed.

Don't sip and sail

Don't drink and drive, a boat that is. A BUI, or boating under the influence, is involved in one-third of all recreational boating fatalities. Always designate a sober skipper.

Keep in contact

Stay in touch with others by having more than one communication device that works when wet. VHF radios, emergency locator beacons, satellite phones and cell phones can all be important devices in an emergency.

Katie Nixon can be reached at knixon@gannett.com.