Annual ‘Belt & Jackets’ Tour hosted by GA Governor’s Office of Highway Safety held at Lake Blackshear

CORDELE, Ga. –  The Georgia Governor’s Office of Highway Safety hosted it’s annual “Belts &Jackets” tour Thursday….

Reminding citizens around the state on how to stay safe on the road and on the water this upcoming Memorial Day.

Triple A says an estimated 1.2 million people will hit the road over the weekend.

GSP is responsible for keeping you and your family safe.

“We’re looking for any driving behavior that is unlawful obviously. Anyone who is speeding, driving erratically, not wearing their seatbelt, anyone that might be impaired. We’re looking for anyone that could cause a crash on the roadway,” said Col. Chris Wright, Commissioner Dept. of Public Safety, Georgia State Patrol.

You might think driving under the influence is the leading cause of death, but that’s not the case…

“These cell phones is one of the most leading causes of traffic crashes in the state of Georgia if not America. People are not paying attention. When you get behind the wheel, you’re supposed to drive that vehicle, not be distracted by a text or a phone call,” said Allen Poole, Director, GA Gov. Office of Highway Safety.

Obeying safety laws will keep you and your family safe.

Last year 80 people died on Georgia waterways.

So far this year…only 16.

DHR will be on the water looking for violators.

“The one -hundred foot law mandates idle speed within 100 feet of a person, boat dock, swimming area or any other area including a shore line…” said Thomas Barnard, Dept. Human Resources.

And always make sure to wear a life vest while on a boat or jet ski…

“When on a jet ski they would need to be wearing a kill switch like I’m wearing here, properly fasted life vest and they need to have a fire extinguisher on board,” said Officer Chavin, Department of Human Resources.

Mary Alex Anders reporting.

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