Boating Enforcement Activity
Good news: Few arrested at checkpoint
But many still cited for equipment shortcomings
Five law enforcement agencies recently worked together to help provide a safe boating environment for watercraft users along the Colorado River.
The Arizona Game and Fish Department, Nevada Department of Wildlife, National Park Service, Bullhead City Police Department, and Yavapai County Sheriff’s Department recently conducted an OUI (Operating Under the Influence)/Safety Checkpoint at Katherine’s Landing in Bullhead City.
Two arrests were made for exceeding the blood alcohol limit of .08, down from nine in 2009, and overall compliance with required safety equipment was 78 percent, up from 73 percent in 2010.
Velma Holt, west sector supervisor for the Game and Fish Kingman office, believes an outreach effort that has reached 6,000 boaters over the last three years may have played a role in the higher compliance rate.
“I’m pleased to see more boaters operating with the required equipment,” Holt said. “The regulations are in place for a reason. There are a lot of potential dangers on our waterways, not the least of which is the sheer number of boats using a limited amount of space.”
Holt also mentioned cold water temperatures, alcohol, and inexperienced boaters as other potential safety issues.
“Boat Safe, Boat Smart, and Boat Sober,” Holt said, referring to the safety slogan. “Game and Fish also offers free boating education, which covers safety issues, regulations, and the required equipment prior to launch.”
While compliance improved and arrests were down, Holt did point out some concerns. A total of 72 citations were issued, 31 of which were for not having a Type IV throwable on board.
Holt explained these throwable floatation devices are critical because one person jumping in the water to try and save another simply puts two people at risk.
An additional 15 citations were written for not having a fire extinguisher, 13 for insufficient PFD’s (Personal Floatation Device), four were written for expired registration, four for having a child under 12 not wearing a life jacket, two for possession of drugs and paraphernalia, and one for an overloaded boat.
“Everyone on the water needs to understand how many scenarios on the water can quickly turn into a life-or-death situation,” Holt said. “If you are going on a boat, take a few minutes to learn what is required prior to launching.”
For those interested in taking a boating education class, visit the Game and Fish website at www.azgfd.gov/boating.
