L’Observateur / March 31, 1999

As the summer months approach, the boaters will be out in force. With thetragic death of a Kenner 4-year-old in Lake Cataouatche during the past weekend, this serves to highlight the need to attend to boat safety.

This not only means adequate safety equipment, such as lifejackets, radios or flares, but also to the boat itself. In this particular case, it wasreported the boat was old and worn and leaked water uncontrollably, which led to the accident.

Boaters need to be educated and aware of the hazards. Even in the calmestweather, problems can arise which can lead to tragic results.

Proper boat safety procedures contribute to a safe and happy boating experience. Young and old alike can enjoy the waterways and lakes whichadorn south Louisiana. We cannot urge enough that boaters take the timeand trouble to make certain of their boats and safety equipment.

The tragic vision of a small child, trapped on a capsized boat, his tiny body wracked by hypothermia, should frighten us, and it should prompt us to take the right steps.

Louisiana is properly called a sportsman’s paradise. With proper attention,it can remain so for all of us.

Copyright © 1998, Wick Communications, Inc.

Internet services provided by NeoSoft.

Best viewed with 3.0 or higher