Louisiana Safe Boating Week Starts This Weekend
With the warmer weather here (and only getting warmer), thoughts are turning towards the water. In Louisiana, we're luckier than most when it comes to places we can enjoy our aquatic side. Lakes, rivers, bayous, sloughs, easy access to ocean, and more give us the perfect opportunity hit the water, and boy do we. Unfortunately, more people boatin' means more people hurtin'.
The increasing number of people hitting the waterways at this time of the year means that this is the perfect time to look at safe boating. That's why this weekend is the kick-off of “Safe Boating Week” in Louisiana. The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) is putting a concerted effort into keeping us all afloat and alive by reminding everyone to inspect their boats to ensure that all required safety equipment is where it is supposed to be, and that the vessels themselves are in sound working condition. If you have any questions about how ready you are, or any of the state regulations - click here.
This also marks the first week of increased DUI/DWI enforcement on our waterways. In case you were wondering, a DWI on the water carries the same weight as on on land.
As a state, so far we are doing better than last year. 2016 saw a reported 24 boating fatalities. 2017 has had 9 reported fatalities so far. With boating season upon us, it's up to you and me to keep these numbers down.