An accident that occurred near Lake Langhofer this month is a reminder of how important it is to pay attention when operating a boat. The accident occurred when the driver of a boat passed near a second boat that was pulling two children on a raft. The driver of the boat told the authorities that he thought his boat had gone over a wave, but when he looked back he saw the two children in the water. Both children were transported to Jefferson Regional Medical Center. One was later taken by helicopter to Arkansas Children’s Hospital in Little Rock. The accident will be investigated by the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission.
While the details of the accident have not been confirmed, boaters on state waterways can take steps to increase safety on lakes and rivers. According to the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission, 20% of all reported accidents in 2011 involved Personal Watercrafts (jet skis, sea doos, etc.). Because of the recreational nature of Personal Watercraft usage and the risk of drowning, the message to all boaters remains the same: “Life jackets save lives”. Boating education is recommended and offered by the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission. The boating safety course is required for anyone born on or after January 1, 1986, and of legal age to operate a motorboat or sailboat.
The primary causes in Arkansas fatal boating accidents reported in 2011 were falls overboard, alcohol, overloading or improper loading, and negligent operation. Registration for the Boat Arkansas online course can be completed online by clicking HERE.