CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. — Five people have died on Tennessee waterways in 2025. State officials are hoping you or your loved one won't be "number 6."

The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) is urging boaters to prioritize safety as the summer boating season approaches.

Four incidents resulted in five fatalities so far this year. One of these fatalities involved a paddle craft. Last year, there was one fatality over the Memorial Day holiday weekend.

The TWRA will take part in the 2025 National Safe Boating Week from May 17-23, reminding boaters to brush up on safety skills. This observance marks the annual kick-off of the Safe Boating Campaign, a global effort encouraging responsible boating.

"We want to encourage everyone to always boat responsibly,' Lt. Col. Matt Majors of TWRA’s Boating and Law Enforcement Division said. '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."

National Safe Boating Week, held annually the week before Memorial Day weekend, sees boating partners across the U.S. and Canada emphasizing safe practices, including wearing life jackets. The TWRA and partner organizations continue to educate the boating community on the importance of life jackets and available lightweight options.

Memorial Day weekend, from May 24-26, is considered the unofficial start to the summer boating season. Tennessee offers numerous opportunities for boating enthusiasts to enjoy the state's resources.

The TWRA recommends several safety tips for boaters:

• Take a boating safety course to gain valuable knowledge and on-water experience.
• Schedule a free vessel safety check with local U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary or U.S. Power Squadrons.
• Make a float plan and inform someone on shore of the trip itinerary.
• Ensure everyone wears a life jacket at all times.
• Use an engine cut-off device to stop the boat’s engine if the operator falls overboard.
• Check the weather forecast before and during the excursion.
• Maintain awareness of surroundings to prevent accidents caused by operator inattention.
• Travel at safe speeds and be familiar with local boating speed zones.
• Never boat under the influence; designate a sober skipper.
• Keep in touch with more than one communication device that works when wet.

The TWRA emphasizes that nearly a quarter of all reported boating accidents last year were due to operator inattention or improper lookout, and a BUI is involved in one-third of all recreational boating fatalities.