Boating expert shares lessons from fatal crash as Fourth of July crowds hit Arkansas lakes

LITTLE ROCK, Ark. — With lakes and rivers expected to be crowded over the Fourth of July holiday, boating experts and emergency responders are urging Arkansans to take extra precautions as one of the busiest weekends on the water also ranks among the most dangerous.

Officials say holiday weekends often bring an increase in boating emergencies. They are encouraging boaters to slow down, stay hydrated, avoid overloading their boats and make sure navigation lights are working if they plan to stay on the water after dark.

Boating expert Josh Bradley said he witnessed firsthand how quickly a fun day on the water can turn tragic. Last December, he saw a fatal boating crash after a boater struck a tree in a slough.

“I feel terrible for that family, you know, they went without their loved one after that day, ” said Bradley. He just didn’t see a tree, and that tree was in the middle of a slew and when he hit the front gunwale, it shot him sideways, and immediately put him right into the tree.”

Bradley said he attempted CPR, but the man later died from his injuries.

The experience, he said, reinforced the importance of slowing down while operating a boat.

“There is no reason to go fast, especially if you have a full load of people,” Bradley said.

Bradley also warned boaters not to exceed their vessel’s weight capacity, saying he has seen overloaded pontoons take on water after waves washed over the bow, causing them to sink.

With temperatures expected to reach the 90s over the holiday weekend, Metropolitan Emergency Medical Services Clinical Coordinator Garrett Whisenhunt said dehydration will also be a major concern for first responders.

“It’s going to be hot outside,” Whisenhunt said. “If you wait until you’re thirsty, you’re probably doing it wrong.”

Bradley said dehydration can also affect a boat operator’s ability to safely navigate the water.

“As you deplete your energy, your brain function slows down,” he said. “You need to make sure you’re staying hydrated.”

For those planning to watch fireworks from the water, Bradley said boaters should ensure all required navigation lights are turned on and consider using additional lighting to make their boats more visible to others.

Bradley said the fatal crash he witnessed serves as a reminder that even experienced boaters can become overconfident.

“He didn’t think for a second that he was going to experience that that day,” Bradley said. “You take things for granted, especially if you’ve been there a bunch and get overconfident.”