During the 2012 Boating Season in Mississippi, the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks (MDWFP) Enforcement Officers will be out patrolling the waterways to ensure that boaters are in compliance with state and federal laws and are using good boating safety practices. The MDWFP is also promoting a safety project called “Lifejackets They Float You Don’t” in an effort to increase awareness and the importance of wearing lifejackets. While on patrol, MDWFPOfficers will reward any child 12 years of age or under who is wearing a properly fitted U. S. Coast Guard approved lifejacket. The child will receive a coupon for free admission to any MDWFP State Park and a free boat launch or guest pass to the Mississippi Museum of Natural Science.

Major Jerry Carter, Law Enforcement Administrator for Boater Education, states that MDWFP is serious about boating safety.

“We want boaters to enjoy the waterways of this state, but we also want them to consider safety as priority number one. MDWFP feels that this campaign will encourage the general public to do the same.”