North Carolina officials are encouraging safe boating practices ahead of Memorial Day weekend as the state launches its annual summer boating safety campaign.
The campaign, called “On the Road, On the Water, Don’t Drink and Drive,” focuses on reducing alcohol-related incidents across North Carolina waterways and highways during one of the busiest travel weekends of the year.
According to the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission, boating fatalities are already ahead of last year’s pace.
Boating Fatalities Rising Across North Carolina
Officials say there have already been 26 boating incidents investigated in 2026, including five fatal incidents resulting in five deaths. Alcohol was reportedly a factor in three of those fatal incidents.
State wildlife officials say operator inattention remains one of the leading causes of boating accidents, especially during the busy summer months.
In 2025, North Carolina recorded 25 fatal boating incidents resulting in 26 deaths. Authorities noted that very few victims involved in deadly incidents were wearing life jackets.
The campaign also coincides with National Safe Boating Week, which continues through May 22.
Officials Urge Sober Boating and Life Jacket Use
Wildlife officials are encouraging everyone heading to lakes and waterways across the Sandhills and North Carolina to designate a sober boat operator and wear life jackets at all times.
As Memorial Day traffic increases around Southern Pines, Pinehurst and vacation destinations statewide, officials say simple safety precautions can save lives.
Additional boating safety resources are available through the U.S. Coast Guard Boating Safety Division.
For more updates impacting the Sandhills and North Carolina, stay connected with Star 102.5 and Sandhills News.
