Boating tragedies happen all too often
Today is the first day of summer, a time when most of us head outdoors for fun and leisure activities. During the summer months many Coweta County residents will head to the lakes and rivers for boating and fishing activities.A tragic boating accident Monday evening on Lake Lanier near Gainesville reminds us of the importance of safety when we take to the lakes and rivers.
According to the Associated Press reports of the Hall County incident, a fishing boat struck a pontoon “basically head-on” in what authorities called a hit-and-run accident. There were 13 people on the pontoon when it was struck. A 9-year-old was killed, authorities searched for the body of a 13-year-old, and three other pontoon passengers were injured. A man, who apparently was operating the fishing boat, was arrested at a marina and charged with operating a boat under the influence.
Horrible boating incidents like this one happen all too often on our waterways -- particularly during the busy summer months. Our waterways can be just as dangerous as our highways. Boat operators not only need to ensure the safety of the people on their boat, but they also must be aware of other vessels around them.
Just remember that safety is paramount. The “don’t drink and drive” message is as important on our waterways as it is on our roadways. Be prepared before getting in the water -- a fun outing can quickly turn into a disaster.
