MADISON COUNTY, Miss. (WJTV) – Boating and fishing along the Ross Barnett Reservoir is a staple for Mississippians during the summer months.

Safety is the most important thing to consider when you’re on a boat. Although life vests are not mandatory for adults on the water, Reservoir Police Chief Carlos DiPuma said boaters are encouraged to follow all safety protocols.

“We do have a shallow lake out here, and there are stumps in the water. The way our current runs, you know, it could be a log in the water that you hit. It could be any kind of accident that could happen that could capsize your boat. Or maybe you fall out of the boat, and if you have a life vest on, you will float,” he explained.