By Louie Stout

I can’t help but notice a disturbing trend in boating accidents and drownings throughout Indiana this year.

I have seen some really unfortunate accidents in Indiana DNR Law Enforcement reports that could have been easily prevented with a little common sense.

“It seems like every spring we see an influx of drawings because everyone is eager to get on the water even though our waterway levels are elevated,” said Capt. Jet Quillen of the Indiana DNR. “People put themselves in dangerous situations by going onto flooded or high water. The current is faster and they lose control.”

This brings me to the point of this column: Kayaks - from which a number of people have died this spring.

I’m not blaming kayaks. I’ve fished from kayaks. I understand the attraction.

I’m blaming the people who use them, many of whom have little or no experience operating a craft on water and who throw caution to the wind.

The paddled vessels have become very trendy the past couple of years since you can purchase a basic rig for under $200. For many kayakers I know, it’s the first watercraft they’ve ever owned or operated.

These simple crafts have many advantages. They get you on underutilized public water where you can enjoy a peaceful and scenic day in the outdoors. They’ve also become popular among anglers who fish areas inaccessible by power boats and the fish aren’t quite as educated to angling tactics.

Because they are lightweight, you can take them just about anywhere regardless of the size of your vehicle. You can launch them off the roadside with little effort.

Given all the positives, I also understand how people get into trouble with them. They may not tip or turnover as easily as a canoe, but they definitely will turn you upside down when you least expect it.

Nothing wrong with that if you’re a strong swimmer, it’s a summer day AND you’re wearing a life jacket. The problem is that a lot of people don’t wear them.

State law requires you to have one with you. It doesn’t require you to wear it.

“In every drowning I’ve heard about this year there has been a life jacket on the kayak, but it wasn’t being worn,” said Capt. Quillen.

That’s true of 90 percent of other boat drownings. But Kayakers (and canoeists), who prefer the flowing waters of streams and rivers face an inherent danger.

Stream topography and current can change quickly, and unless you’re an experienced paddler, shallow underwater objects can spin you out of control or flip you over. Current can feed you into debris-filled areas where you may get pinned against obstructions or can’t get to the bank.

Without a life jacket, you’re doomed.

So, regardless of whether you’re a kayak newbie or experienced veteran, wear the darn life jacket. Take time to research the water you plan to enjoy, don’t venture out alone or without telling someone where you’re going and what time you’ll be home.

It’s all pretty basic common sense measures, right?

Then do it. Don’t become a statistic.