DNR Rangers Crump & Stevens on patrol. ~~ Photograph by Robert Sutherland

Usually the highest score wins, but not when you’re counting the number of drownings, boating accidents and Boating Under the Influence (BUI) statistics for the July 4th holiday weekend.

In those cases the winning score is zero.

The 2013 Fourth of July Holiday boating statistics report has been released by the Georgia Department of Natural Resources’ Wildlife Resources Division.

By way of comparison, statewide in 2012 there were no drownings and no other fatalities.  There were three injuries from three separate incidents.  Seven people were cited for Boating Under the Influence.

As of 9:35 PM, Thursday, July 4th, 2013, the statewide score for Georgia was:

• Drownings – zero
• Boating Under the Influence (BUI) – 2
• Boating Incidents – 2 (1 on Lake Hartwell and 1 on Lake Burton)
• Boating Incident Related Injuries – 3  (Injuries from the incidents above included 1 broken arm; cuts/bruises and another minor injury.)
• Boating Incident Related Fatalities – ZERO!

Yes, the weather has been crummy.  Some areas are flooding.  But to the degree the weather has helped keep people alive and families safe, we’re thankful.

We regret that folks who make a living serving Lake Allatoona visitors have taken huge hits financially from the recent bad weather.  Go have dinner near the lake and watch the rain.

When the sun comes out again — and it will — be safe out there!