Alabama Law Enforcement Agency gears up for busy Memorial Day Weekend on the Gulf

ORANGE BEACH, Ala. ( WKRG ) — One of the busiest holiday weekends along the Gulf Coast is about to get underway.

The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency spoke with News 5 about boat and water safety during the Memorial Day Weekend.

ALEA Public Information Officer Joshua Thompson said most tickets they write on the water are for lifejackets.

“There needs to be one for every occupancy on the boat,” Thompson said. “They need to fit properly, and they need to be in good condition. If there are any occupants on the boat that are younger than 8 years old, they need to wear them at all times.”

The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency wants to remind anyone who’s going to be on a boat this weekend to have a designated driver and to follow the rules of the water.

They’re watching you on the water whether you’re on a small boat or a big boat. Thompson told News 5 what they’re looking out for specifically.

“Boating under the influence, folks that are out drinking operating a boat, careless operation of a boat, and proper sitting configurations,” he said.

The troopers will have an increased presence out on the water all through the weekend to ensure a safe environment and educate everyone coming down to enjoy our beaches.

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