MONROE, La. (KNOE 8 News)- With the weather heating up, many boaters will hit the water this Memorial Day weekend. But if water safety isn't made a priority, consequences will follow.
"It's a great day usually, but it can in a very split second, it can be total fun into total tragedy." Boat lover Ralph Asbury is warning, fun water activities can easily turn deadly. Asbury, a retired emergency room doctor, knows first hand.
More than once, boating accidents have claimed lives and caused heartbreak in his waterfront neighborhood, which is why he takes water safety so seriously. "Remember to be safe, be courteous to other boaters, realize you need to give instructions to others cuz you're the one driving the boat and responsible."
Asbury says boat operators should stay away from alcohol, passengers should wear life jackets and sit safely inside the boat. And if his passengers don't comply? They don't ride. "That's kind of a tough love approach but you'll feel a whole lot better, if nobody gets hurt than if somebody does and it becomes a tragedy that's something that will be with you forever." said Asbury.
But not all drivers are as mindful as Asbury, and that's where law enforcement comes in. Wildlife and fisheries patrols will be all over the water ways this weekend, making sure you stay safe and out of trouble. "The agents will be looking for boat safety inspections, that's inspecting for life jackets, fire extinguishers and other safety equipment, and in the process of doing that we'll also be looking for careless operations and dwi's on the water ways." said Sgt. Thomas Risser, of the Department of Wildlife and Fisheries.
Keep your fun from turning into tickets or tragedy by practicing boat safety. Just a reminder, everyone under 17 must wear life jackets on boats or face a 50 dollar fine.
If you're stopped by agents and your child has on a life jacket, you will receive a free t-shirt.
Friday, May 17 2013 12:09 PM EDT2013-05-17 16:09:18 GMT
FARMERVILLE, La. (KNOE 8 News) - The family of a Farmerville teen who died at football practice last week says it is overwhelmed by the community's gratitude.
FARMERVILLE, La. (KNOE 8 News) - The family of a Farmerville teen who died at football practice last week says it is overwhelmed by the community's gratitude.
