HAMMOND, LA – (April 18, 2018) – Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff Daniel Edwards reports the following:
While the weather is warm, families enjoy our scenic waterways and enjoy many outdoor recreational activities. However, a trip on the water can sometimes quickly turn into a bad or dangerous experience, vehicles can be burglarized and accidents can occur while trying to have fun.
In the last month, the Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Criminal Investigation Division worked several thefts that occurred on or near our beautiful waterways. Recently, TPSO Detectives arrested 40-year –old John Gill of Lee’s Landing Ponchatoula for possession of stolen property related to stolen items taken from boats parked at the Marina on Lees Landing. Some if the items even included a boat steering wheel and boat motor. These thefts occurred during daylight and evening hours.
As the weather warms up and the sun begins to shine, we typically see an increase in theses types of crimes. To help protect yourself, your loved ones, and friends, we offer the following tips to help keep you safe.
? Be aware of what you post on social media, including photos and where you “check-in.” This alerts followers you are on the river or away from your residence.
? While at the boat launch, make sure all vehicle doors are locked and property is out of sight, and the garage door opener is not in the vehicle.
? Lock valuables and important items in a safe place only you would know.
? Consider having a locking devise to lock your boat trailer to your vehicle.
? Take photos with your phone of all valuable to include serial numbers. These photos are then stored in the cloud.
Safe Boating Tips
The Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office Marine Patrol works in conjunction with the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fishers patrolling the waters of Tangipahoa Parish. Boating accidents can be prevented by following these safety rules:
? Have personal flotation devices (PFD) available for all passengers on board.
? The vessel must be equipped with an adequate horn or whistle and approved fire extinguisher.
? Navigation lights must be on between sunset and sunrise.
? Be aware of your swimming capability.
? Avoid alcohol.
? Check local weather conditions before departure. Storms can pop up in a hurry and after all this is Louisiana.
? Use common sense – operate at a safe speed, stay alert and be respectful of navigational aids and other boaters.
“Summer is the prime time for outdoor recreation,” said Sheriff Edwards. “There isn’t a better place to enjoy water activities than at one of the many beautiful waterways that exist in Tangipahoa Parish. By reminding our friends and neighbors of these helpful safety tips, we wish everyone a happy and safe summer,” concluded Edwards.
