As Memorial Day weekend approaches and lake activity begins to increase across Arkansas, the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission is reminding boaters to prepare ahead of time and practice patience at crowded boat ramps.
Jeremy Risley, the AGFC’s Black Bass Program coordinator, said boaters should have equipment ready before reaching the launch ramp to help avoid delays and congestion.
Risley also encouraged patience when dealing with inexperienced or occasional boaters, saying frustration at the ramp can create additional safety issues.
The AGFC is also reminding boaters to make sure required safety equipment is onboard before heading to the water.
Required equipment includes properly fitting life jackets for every passenger, throwable flotation devices for larger boats, fire extinguishers where required, navigation lights for nighttime operation and sound-producing devices such as horns or whistles.
Officials also noted that children age 12 and younger must wear a Coast Guard-approved life jacket while onboard most vessels underway.
The AGFC says following boating laws and practicing courtesy helps keep Arkansas lakes safe during the busy summer season.
Additional boating safety information and Arkansas boating laws are available through the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission.
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