RICHLAND, Wash. – Whether you’re floating or boating, BSCO Marine Patrols say you should have a life vest on hand.
Benton County Sheriff’s Office (BSCO) Marine Patrol says a life vest and a whistle or just a couple of items are required on a marine vessel. This includes kayaks, paddleboards, and boats.
“It’s just as easy as laying back, letting the life jacket do its job, and waiting for someone to come help,” Deputy Brett Hansen said.
Deputy Hansen said when people float the Yakima River, they use pool floaties which aren’t the safest option. He said they often pop or don’t properly hold a person’s weight.
“People start too late in the day and it gets dark before they finish because it’s very slow moving. It takes a good four to six hours depending on where you start. So, we often get panic calls about their loved ones not making it on time to their destination. They’re probably somewhere between the Columbia River and where they started,” Deputy Hansen said.
He added that whatever you’re doing on the water this summer, be prepared with a life jacket, a whistle (or another noise maker to alert others), a form of communication, fluids, and a way to contact people if you need.
