Yes, prayers indeed. Our hearts go out to those who suffered the loss...
Let's all keep in mind that when out on the water, whether in a boat or not, to keep safety foremost in our minds. Especially when fishing at night from a boat as these folks were doing. That is a very common practice on the Pepacton to chase big browns with sawbelly lights at night.
So, if you don't know how to swim, and are in a boat, make sure you are wearing a pfd. You may feel silly wearing it, but feeling silly is better than drowning.
Make sure that there are serviceable pfd's for everyone aboard and that they are readily accesible (within arm's length reach) and that they fit everyone. Also be sure to have a throwable pfd on board as well. A signal/air horn and a flare gun are also very useful in the event of a tragedy.
In the unlikely event that tragedy should strike, try to leave somebody at the scene when you go for help or otherwise make a good mental note of the last place you saw your fishing buddy. This will make it much easier on search and rescue teams and cut down on precious time to find the person in distress.
Make sure that you have bow and stern lights and that they are clearly visible from all directions.
Also make sure that you are familiar with the body of water and any underwater obstacles/obstructions that could prove dangerous to your boat.
Watch the weather!! Be alert to strong winds, swells, and changing tides that could capsize or swamp your boat. Be sure to have a compass and a navigation chart with you so that you can safely navigate your way home.
Last but certainly not least, keep the alcohol consumption to a minimum (especially if you are the driver)! It is extremely important to have your wits about you so that if you should go over you can survive the fall into the water.
I'll try to get info/news from home on the tragedy and post it if I find it appropriate to do so...
