For the first season in more than a decade, no fatalities were recorded on Lake Conroe between Memorial Day and Labor Day, the Montgomery County Precinct 1 Constable's Office announced in an Oct. 2 news release.

The period spanning from Memorial Day through Labor Day is known as the "100 deadliest days of summer" for roadways and waterways in Texas, according to the release.

The big picture

Precinct 1 Constable Philip Cash implemented a Safe Lake Initiative in 2017 to improve safety on Lake Conroe, according to the release, which entails voluntary boater safety checks, high-visibility water enforcement and providing deputies with equipment to serve those on the water.

This year, Precinct 1 marine deputies:
  • Did 460 traffic stops on watercraft
  • Conducted over 681 boat safety checks
  • Responded to five boat crashes
  • Enforced more than 120 violations
  • Arrested nine boat captains for boating while intoxicated
Community Impact previously reported 2020 was among the most deadly years on Lake Conroe since 2010 with 26 deaths by drowning reported on Lake Conroe by the Texas Parks & Wildlife Department from 2010-20. At the same time, the TPWD reported the state saw an increase in water-related fatalities during the Labor Day weekend over the prior year, according to a Sept. 8 news release from the department.


The approach

According to Cash's office, support and education from the community led to achieving zero fatalities, including that from:
  • Texas Offshore Performance Powerboat Squadron
  • The Lake Conroe Pontoon Party Group
  • Local marinas
  • Social groups around Lake Conroe
In addition, Montgomery County Precinct 1 Commissioner Robert Walker and Cash's office have added an all-weather, 23-foot craft to the Marine Division—the Maritime 233 Voyager—with a fully enclosed cabin to allow the Marine Division to operate year round.

Notable quote

“Providing our deputies the best equipment allows for the best service to our community, and I am proud to have the continued support from Commissioner Walker. Please remember, no matter what time of year, always be sensible and be safe when visiting Lake Conroe,” Cash said in the release.


What else?

Montgomery County Emergency Services District No. 2 and the Montgomery Fire Department purchased a new rescue boat for Lake Conroe earlier this year as well, which is designed to handle rough water. The boat is assigned to the Walden Marina, Community Impact previously reported.