BEAUMONT, Texas — As coronavirus stay at home orders ease across the country, people are eager to get outside. Many will spend Memorial Day weekend on the water.
While COVID-19 is still on the back of folks' minds, experts say it's not the biggest threat on the holiday.
Nelda McDonald was enjoying the Neches River with her family on Sunday, and spoke to 12News about what her family is doing to stay safe.
"It was getting a little much just being just inside," McDonald said. "I'm gonna make sure we have someone spotting and watching at all times cause I know that it's gonna be a busy, busy weekend with the holiday so I wanna make sure we constantly have eyes on them."
Health experts say COVID-19 can't be spread through water and that drowning poses a bigger risk this holiday.
McDonald told 12Nes everyone in her family wears life jackets as they prepare to go for a ride on the water.
The Texas Department of Family Protective Services are reporting at least 25 child drownings in 2020.
Four of those took place in Southeast Texas.
The children ranged in age from 11 months to 3 years old.
Game wardens in Texas have also increased patrol according to Captain Ryan Hall.
"We're trying to protect the public, prevent accidents by being out here in full force and getting that message out to have your safety equipment and operate responsibly," Hall said.
State officials say it's important to never leave children alone around water and don't assume they will use good judgements when near water.
"You have to have safety first," McDonald said.
If you're planning to spend time on the water for Memorial Day, officials say it's important to be responsible and keep an eye out for children.
