With summer time fast approaching, Sergeant Wayne Parker of the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries stopped by the station to give a few tips on boating safety. The LDWF Enforcement Division reminds all boaters to be safe, responsible, and knowledgeable while on the water. Sergeant Parker urges boaters to inspect their vessels and make certain that all required safety equipment is on board, such as life jackets. He brings to attention that it is mandatory for anyone 16 years old and younger to wear a properly fitted life jacket when on a boat less than 26 feet in length.
Sergeant Parker also reminds listeners that just as with a car or truck, operating a boat while intoxicated is illegal. Being cited for operating a vessel intoxicated will result in the operator losing his or her driver's license, and boating privileges, for a judge appointed amount of time. In the state of Louisiana a DWI can be issued to anyone operating a boat or vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration of .08 or higher for people of age, or .02 or higher for anyone under 21 years of age. All offenses will result in fines and jail time, on top of the previously stated license revocation. For more information on all aspects of boating please visit http://www.wlf.louisiana.gov/boating.