As river time begins here, be smart and safe

Colorado River is amazing, as long as people are careful

It’s officially river season, a time to take out those boats and jet skis and head out to the Colorado River.

Without question, a day on the river can be tremendously fun, cruising around, feeling the breezes. It’s a common sight to see people floating in the water alongside their boats, drifting with the current, or playing on one of the river’s many sandbars.

But the river can also be a dangerous place. Members of the Yuma Sun team have seen a variety of scary moments and tragic accidents out there through the years, from heat stroke to serious injuries to deaths.

So as we head full-steam into river season, let’s talk for a few moments about river safety.

People will be out there floating, tubing, skiing and more. And that river? It’s full of sandbars. So boaters need to be constantly aware of where they are going and what’s around them — especially on busy weekends when sandbars more resemble parking lots than water features. It’s also critical that those boat captains are sober. The Yuma County Sheriff’s Office notes that the probability of being involved in a boating accident doubles when alcohol is involved.

And before you head out, give your boat a solid inspection, and make sure that it is properly equipped with a working marine fire extinguisher, a Type IV throwable floatation device and working navigation lights.

Federal law also requires that any vessel operating on federally controlled waters such as the Colorado River be equipped with a sound-producing device such as a whistle, horn or bell.

The boat also must have a life vest for every single person on board. And don’t forget — all children ages 12 and under must actually wear a life vest at all times in the boat — as must anyone being towed behind the boat, such as on a tube or water skis.

Speaking of towing, any boat must have a spotter on board to watch the person being towed, as well as an orange “skier-down” flag that is at least 12x12 inches in size and mounted on a handle.

This summer, be smart out there, and help make our waterway a safe, fun experience for everyone.