ROGERS (KFSM)- National Safe Boating week began May 16, and several local law enforcement agencies have been out on Beaver Lake this weekend conducting random safety checks.
Park Ranger Alan Bland said safe boating week always falls before Memorial Day weekend. He said it's the busiest holiday on the lake, with more than 10,000 boaters expected. Bland said during the safety checks, they make sure there are enough life jackets for everyone on board.
"They have to be out and accessible, the law says you don't have to wear them unless you're twelve and under so if you're an adult the life jacket being underneath a seat container where you have to take five minutes to get them out, that doesn't meet the law," Bland said.
He said if you have a wearable inflatable, it has to be worn at all times. Bland also said boats over 16 feet have to have a throwable device, such as a seat cushion or life ring.
"Unfortunately we've had 116 drownings on Beaver Lake in the last 50 years and we've yet to have anyone drown wearing a life jacket," Bland said.
According to Bland, National Safe Boating week isn't just for boaters, but for swimmer and those fishing from the shore as well. He said they have 12 public beaches on the lake, and no lifeguards are on duty.
"Most have a loaner station where if you want to come down and borrow a life jacket for the day, swim with it, all day long put it back up when you're done we appreciate that," Bland said.
After all the recent rainfall, water levels are high. Bland said it can be tricky for boaters, because logs and branches may be just below the surface but are not visible to boaters or swimmers.
"We want everyone to have a look out, making sure because there's some logs and stuff that weren't there before, so slow down and take your time," Bland said.
He said local sheriff departments, park rangers and Arkansas Game and Fish will all be conducting safety checks through May 22. He said all have the same objective.
"Our goal for Memorial Weekend is that everybody on Sunday night or Monday night goes home alive, no accidents, no problems," Bland said.
Bland said they also check to make sure boater's registration is up-to-date and that they have the proper insurance.