By admin 
APEX, N.C. (WNCN) — Safety on the water is top of mind for deputies and North Carolina Wildlife officers this Memorial Day weekend.
The men and women dedicated to keeping everyone safe hope it is on boaters’ minds too, as many prepare to launch boats, kayaks, and other watercraft on popular lakes this holiday weekend.
As of Sunday afternoon, wildlife officials said it has been a safe weekend with no calls for service.
Business owners, however, are experiencing a slowdown due to high gas prices and drought conditions. The impact is being felt at Jordan Lake in Chatham County.
“Unfortunately, we have been seeing less people out here on the lake, but we’re so excited to be out here now because the sun has finally poked through,” said Pam Letts, owner of Let’s Go Watersports.
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Letts says she had dozens of reservations last Memorial Day weekend, and she hopes the expected rain this week makes a huge difference.
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“It’s actually really just been the last week that it’s been the lower level. For a while, Jordan Lake was the only lake that didn’t have an obvious difference like Falls Lake, which got really low,” said Letts.
Some families say they are still celebrating, but say they’ll be extra careful on the water.
“We know that there’s low water levels, but it doesn’t bother us. We’re adventurers. We like checking out cool rocks, and so there’s just always something new to discover and explore with the low water levels,” said Autumn Bolton, a Raleigh resident.
Wildlife officials said there have been five deadly boating incidents across the state this year with three involving alcohol.
As of Sunday morning, officials say there have been no charges of boating under the influence on Jordan Lake. One NC Wildlife Commission captain said there will still be a heavy presence on the waters until the end of the three-day weekend.
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