Caddo Parish Marine Unit reminds boaters to use caution out on the water

CADDO PARISH, La. (KTAL/KMSS) – For the average outdoorsman, there are plenty of lakes, bayous, rivers, and parks where you can enjoy nature.

Ahead of boating season during Spring, the Caddo Parish Marine Unit offered suggestions to maximize fun in the sun.

“When we stop a boat for a safety check, everybody is required to have a life jacket on board, somewhere on the vessel,” said Sgt. Chad Davis. “If you’re 16 years of age or younger, you’re required to wear the vest while the boat is underway.”

People can enjoy alcoholic beverages, but if you are drinking, someone else must operate the boat. Davis says the rivers are unpredictable, requiring a focused driver.

“You never know where a sandbar is going to be or anything like that,” said Davis. “We always ask people to at least try to be familiar with where you’re going, because the obstacles, you can’t see them underwater. Caddo Lake has some old abandoned oil wells that you could hit. Always, always make sure you stay in the channel,” said the Sergeant.

Davis also emphasized planning and letting family members know where you will be. Having a knowledge of boating before braving the waves is also key.

“We get a lot of calls,” Davis said. “People get out there, their boat is not running. We get there, and they’re out of gas, the propeller is wrapped up in something. Just make sure you know the common sense about boats, gas, oil, killswitch and all that stuff. You’ll be amazed what people get out there and do, and they don’t know anything about it.”

People must have a boat safety education card if born after January 1, 1984. Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries and the Caddo Parish Sheriff’s Office offer card classes.