Sponsored by the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary and the Lake Pontchartrain Sail & Power Squadron, the event was held as part of National Safe Boating Week.
Demonstrations were given on knot tying, as well as how to properly fit and wear a life jacket. Free vessel checks were also performed to ensure boaters have the minimum required safety equipment.
 A group of youngsters plays with Coastie the Safety Boat, a robotic boat used by the Auxiliary to help educate children about boating safety. (Staff Photo by Anne Lautzenheiser) |
Louisiana state law requires all persons under age 13 to wear a life jacket at all times when aboard a boat. Sougeron pointed out that life jackets should be stored unpackaged, individually fitted and readily available for use by the crew.
A 25-foot Coast Guard patrol boat was also on display, outfitted with emergency dewatering pumps and life rafts. Known as a “safe boat,” Sougeron said the boat is used in all kinds of weather for both law enforcement and rescues.
An exciting in-water rescue demonstration was also given, using the HH-65 Dolphin helicopter. A short-range recovery aircraft, the chopper was retrofitted with dual turbine engines, which, according to Sougeron, gives it 25 percent more lift.
“In people terms, that means three or four more lives saved on each trip,” he said.
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