Shreveport Police Department

PO Box P • Shreveport, LA 71161 • 318/673-6932 • Fax: 318/673-6933

www.ci.shreveport.la.us/dept/police/spdnews

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Date: April 5, 2002

Contact: Kacee Hargrave, Public Information Officer

318/673-6932

Boating safety should be first priority on lake

Residents looking to have a good time on the lake this summer can make sure their fun stays that way by practicing good safety. Here are things that citizens can do:

• Make sure all water craft is equipped with personal flotation devices. Make sure all passengers have one and wear it. Make sure it fits properly.

• Let family members know where you’re going and when you plan to return.

• Know the boat’s handling characteristics. Never overload it.

• Know your position and where you are going on the water.

• Make sure the boat operator is properly trained and experienced.

• Keep passengers from moving about in the boat. Make sure they are properly seated to avoid ejection.

• Never operate a boat in a swimming area.

• Never operate a boat under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

• Do not use excessive speed in the vicinity of other boats or in dangerous waters.

• Maintain a proper lookout. Pay attention to your surroundings.

• When passengers are boarding or getting off a boat, make sure the engine is off, so the propeller isn’t rotating.

• Never start a boat with the engine in gear.

• When water skiing, designate someone to keep the skier in site at all times.

• Make sure the boat is equipped with a properly working horn.

• Know boating right-of-way and navigational rules.

• Keep an eye out for changing weather conditions and act accordingly.

• If someone falls out of the boat, they should remain calm and prevent excess moving. They should keep their knees bent and float on their back while paddling slowly to safety.

- spd -