With more than 200,000 boats registered statewide, according to the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission, many residents spend a lot of time boating to beat the heat.
Boaters, however, need to remember to be cautious on the water. A 14-year-old girl was killed in Arkansas on June 11 in a jet ski accident, and a Missouri man was killed June 13 after lightning struck his boat.
Attorney General Leslie Rutledge issued this consumer alert to caution Arkansans about the potential dangers of boating.
“Nearly all boating accidents are preventable,” Rutledge said. “In order for summer to be both fun and safe, it is vital that all boaters remain attentive, wear proper personal flotation devices and take precautions to avoid major accidents.”
Last year, 72 boating accidents were reported by the Game and Fish Commission, with operator inattention being the No. 1 cause. Alcohol was the contributing factor in eight of those accidents during 2014.
Independent reporting for Pine Bluff & Jefferson County since 1879.
Rutledge released the following tips to boat safely:
• Check local weather conditions before departure. If you notice darkening clouds, volatile or rough winds or sudden drops in temperatures, stay off the water.
• Create and follow a pre-departure checklist to ensure no boating safety rules or precautions have been forgotten or overlooked.
• Have a first aid kit, signaling devices, a boat anchor, marine VHF radio and a cellphone on board in case of emergencies.
• Be alert at all times and stay clear of large vessels that may experience difficulty turning or stopping. Always respect buoys and other navigational aids.
• Designate an assistant skipper in case the primary navigator is injured or incapacitated in any way.
• Inform family or friends of your plans, where you are going and how long you are going to be gone.
• Make sure everyone is assigned a proper-fitting life jacket. Arkansas law requires children 12 and under to wear a life jacket at all times boating or swimming.
• Avoid alcohol while boating.