The Memorial Day Weekend is the unofficial start to the 2025 boating season, and local authorities are reminding boaters to play it safe this weekend.

Department of Natural Resources Conservation Police Officer Noah Workman is encouraging boaters to give those boats a good once-over before getting them on the water for the first time.

One of the biggest points of emphasis for DNR officials is life jacket compliance. Officer Workman says it is simply about safety, and they want everyone on the water to be safe.

Officer Workman is also stressing parking in the designated parking areas for both boat trailers and vehicles. He says they get too often people not parking in the proper lots, and it can create a lot of problems.

While open containers of alcohol are permitted on boats, Officer Workman reminds the operator of the watercraft has to be sober. He also indicates the legalization of marijuana in Illinois has changed the game a little bit.

If you are planning to keep your boat on the water all weekend, Officer Workman reminds it cannot be left unattended on the water for more than six hours. When they encounter this issue, they make every effort to contact the owner of the boat for them to get it off the water before having it towed.

Visit dnr.illinois.gov for more all things boating regulations in Illinois and information for State Parks.