May 18 seminar to emphasize boating safety

GAINESVILLE - More and more boats are plowing the waters of Lake Lanier these days, a tune-up to the coming summer months and four groups are teaming up for a boating safety awareness seminar later this month.

Sponsored by the Lake Lanier Association, Lake Lanier Islands, TEAM Georgia, and the Lake Lanier Water Safety Alliance, it will be held Saturday, May 18, from 10:00-4:00 at Sunset Cove at Lake Lanier Islands.

Organizers say the purpose is to help increase awareness of boating safety issues. Representatives of several local law enforcement agencies will be on hand as well as lake partner agencies and local retailers giving away safety related information and safety-related promotional items. Complimentary vessel safety inspections will be conducted by the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary. In addition, a portion of the gate fee proceeds at Lake Lanier Islands will be donated to the Lake Lanier Water Safety Alliance and its continuing efforts to make Lake Lanier safer.

If you wish to attend and will be arriving by car, organizers say plan to go through the main gate at the Islands and follow the signs for Sunset Cove parking. Anyone arriving by boat may use the boat docks at Sunset Cove.

Last year, the lake was the scene of two high-profile fatal boating accidents that took the lives of three young people and resulted in passage earlier this year of stricter boating laws by the state Legislature. Gov. Nathan Deal signed the bills during a lakeside ceremony April 23.

http://accesswdun.com/article/2013/5/261235