News 12 at 6:00, July 3, 2009

AUGUSTA, Ga.-- Jackie Voss and her two grandchildren are getting a head start on their Fourth of July fun. They're spending their day swimming at Lake Thurmond.

"Have a designated watcher in the water and that doesn't mean like reading a book or doing something else. You have to constantly be watching the children, and then just trade off when you need a break. But somebody has to constantly keep an eye on them at all times," Jackie Voss said.

And while she's keeping an eye on the little ones, extra Park Rangers and Georgia and South Carolina DNR will be out here patrolling the water.

Park Ranger Jay Weidman says all 13 campgrounds are full, the shelters are reserved, and the boat ramps will be overflowing.

"Our biggest concern will be safety. We'll be looking for folks operating in a no-wake zone at high speeds where they shouldn't," Jay Weidman said.

And they'll be watching for boats that are too close to the swimming areas.

They'll also be pulling boaters over for not having enough life jackets on board and for having too many people on board. The biggest message to boaters don't drink and drive. Park Rangers say boating under the influence or BUI can be more serious than a DUI.

"If you have an accident on the water and say you end up in the water, and if you're not wearing a PFD. That's not a very forgivable environment. There's a very good chance that you're going to drown," Weidman said.

And that's why they hope the crowds and celebrations don't get out of control.

"Party weekend, fun weekend, certainly. Have your fun, enjoy yourself. That's one of the reasons why the lake is here. But do it responsibly because there are other weekends and other years and we certainly would like to have you come back and enjoy them in the future," Weidman said.