La Follette, TN  (WLAF) – As tourist season in Campbell County prepares to open, the 2019 National Safe Boating Week is just ahead of the Memorial Day weekend opening.  TOP PHOTO:  Boaters at Springs Dock on Norris Lake.

National Safe Boating Week is May 18-24 and the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency is participating to promote the wearing of life jackets as the summer boating season starts in full force.

The week prior to Memorial Day weekend is when National Safe Boating Week is annually held.  Boating partners across the United States and Canada are teaming to promote safe boating practices, including the wear of life jackets for National Safe Boating Week and throughout the 2019 boating season.

Tennessee offers boating enthusiasts an abundance of opportunities to enjoy the resources across the state. Memorial Day weekend is viewed as the unofficial kickoff to the summer boating season. The goal of National Safe Boating Week is to educate the public about the importance of safe boating practices and wearing life jackets while on the water.

The folks at Springs Dock plan for a fun and safe boating season

Over the course of the summer, TWRA will offer three safe boating classes here in Campbell County.

All of the sessions will be held at the Norris Lake Boat Center. The first class begins tonight. This session will be May 20 and 21, one class conducted over two days, from 5 pm until 8 pm each night. The next classes are July 15 and 16 and Aug. 5 and 6. All classes will be from 5 pm until 8 pm with one class held over two sessions.

Participants are asked to bring their Type 600 Exam Permit and call to reserve a seat. To reserve a seat call (865) 256-9839

“Safe Boating Week is the perfect opportunity before the first major holiday weekend of the year to remind boaters about safety equipment,” said Betsy Woods, TWRA Boating Education Coordinator. “It is also the time to make maintenance checks and all that is needed so they can have a great time on the water and be safe.” (WLAF NEWS PUBLISHED – 05/20/2019-6AM)