All team members are certified in water, boating, and marine safety. The primary mission of the Water Patrol unit is the patrol of Ascension Parish waterways. This includes the search, rescue, and recovery of victims involved in boating accidents in Ascension Parish. In addition they perform routine water-way inspections to insure that boaters are following proper safety standards as required by state and federal laws.

 

Standard patrols (non-emergency) begin Memorial Day weekend and continue every weekend through Labor Day weekend. Patrols are conducted primarily on Saturdays, Sundays and all major summer holidays.

 

Primary patrol areas include Blind River, Amite River and all connecting waterways.

 

Special water events are also covered by the Water Patrol unit such as the Crew of Diverson, Mardi Gras parade in February and the St.Jude Bass tournament in April.

 

The Ascension Parish Sheriff’s Office Water Patrol has established a close working relationship with the Livingston Parish Sheriff’s Office water patrol unit, the Louisiana Department of Wildlife & Fisheries, and U.S. Coast Guard. In times of need all four agencies work extremely close and coordinate efforts to maximize public safety, rescue, and recovery.

 

Water and boat safety questions can be directed to:

Ascension Parish Sheriff’s Office Dy. Shane Cannon at: 225-621-8300 Louisiana Department of Wildlife Lt. Dennis Busche: 225-765-2999 U.S. Coast Guard: 800-589-6225

To report emergencies or water way hazards contact:

Ascension Parish Sheriff’s Office: 911 or 225-621-8300 Louisiana Department of Wildlife: 225- 765-2441 U.S. Coast Guard (New Orleans group): 800-589-6225