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Officers gear up for busy Memorial Day weekend on Lake Mead

Posted at 6:39 PM, May 26, 2017
and last updated 2017-05-26 21:39:35-04

Law enforcement agencies that patrol Lake Mead are gearing up for a busy Memorial Day weekend. 

Thousands of people are expected to visit the lake over the holiday weekend. Nevada state game wardens will be out in full force to make sure people are staying safe. 

"Stay out of the wind, but really understand how the boat works," said Zachary Blackwood, field Game Warden. 

There have been at least 17 deaths at Lake Mead this year. It's even been ranked the deadliest park in America.

Blackwood said the strong winds are one reason why people drown easily at Lake Mead. 

"When the wind is blowing, someone jumps off a boat, there might be a 1-2 foot wave. It gets them in the face, they take in water, they panic, and that's usually when they start to struggle and go under," Blackwood said. 

His best advice to lake visitors is to be aware of the weather conditions and always wear a life-jacket.