Stay safe on the water
Dear editor:
Lake Ouachita State Park is a popular spot for many Arkansans to swim, fish, camp and boat. Boating, in particular, is an activity that many patrons enjoy while visiting the lake. As a consequence of the heavy boating traffic on Lake Ouachita, especially in the summer months, the lake holds the highest number of boating accidents out of any body of water in Arkansas, ringing in a grand total of eight accidents in 2015. These accidents result in the loss of thousands of dollars in property damage, and more importantly, cause injury and in grim circumstances, death.
The leading cause for boating accidents in the state of Arkansas is driver inattention. It is stated in the Arkansas Boating Handbook that all marine vessel operators must maintain a “proper lookout” at all times in which the vessel is in motion. Many boat drivers may be unaware of this fact, as only those born on or after Jan. 1, 1986, are required to complete a boating education course before operating a motor or sailboat. Ironically, in 2015, the majority of marine craft involved in accidents were operated by drivers between the ages 31 and 40, warranting them exempt from completing a boating education class before heading out on the water.
A possible solution to this problem is to require all operators of marine craft to complete a short, two-hour boating education class, in which students would review the guidelines set out in the Arkansas Boating Handbook. These guidelines include laws regarding boating under the influence, proper technique, signaling and the responsibility involved in boating.
Boating education classes are taught at Hot Springs High School in the required health class, enabling students to obtain their boating licenses, and become aware of the seriousness of correct and safe boating. Similar classes could be taught at National Park College or at the Lake Ouachita State Park Marina. If classes were given during normal operating hours, it would be at a minimal cost; the only cost would be in paying the instructors.
In informing watercraft operators about the guidelines, expectations and liabilities that come with boating, accidents could be avoided, money saved and injuries, or even deaths, prevented. With the spring and summer months coming up, it is important to stay safe and aware while enjoying one of Arkansas’ most beautiful attractions.
Elizabeth Solleder
Hot Springs