SOCIAL CIRCLE, Ga. (AP) State officials are urging boat safety this July 4th and reminding boaters of a new law requiring them to complete an education course approved by the Department of Natural Resources. <br />
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Officials say rangers will be working "to keep the lakes and rivers safe and patrolling for those who make poor decisions and unsafe choices." <br />
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The new law took effect on July 1 and requires anyone born on or after Jan. 1, 1998, must complete the course before operating a motorized vessel on state waters. The law also requires anyone renting a boat or personal watercraft to watch a short video and complete a safety checklist unless they have completed a boater education course. <br />
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Officials say 40 boating incidents so far this year have resulted in three deaths and 28 injuries.
