Officials urge people to check their equipment, designate a sober driver and be prepared for emergencies before heading out.
PORT CLINTON, Ohio — With the Fourth of July holiday fast approaching, local law enforcement agencies are emphasizing water safety for boaters planning to hit the lake this weekend.
Officials are urging people to check their equipment, designate a sober driver and be prepared for emergencies before heading out.
As thousands prepare to celebrate Independence Day on Ohio’s waterways, safety is top of mind for officials.
Eryk Grycza, a natural resource officer with the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, said his team stays busy during the holiday.
“On a typical Fourth of July, the majority of our day is spent trying to make sure people are being safe and to stop problems before they start,” Grycza said.
One of the most common issues officers encounter is poor boat maintenance, especially with navigation lights, which often go unchecked.
“Since so many people do their boating during daylight hours, they may not realize their navigation lights aren’t working until it’s time to turn them on and they won’t come on,” Grycza explained.
The Ottawa County Sheriff’s Office is also urging boaters to not just prepare for fun, but potential emergencies, too. This includes having all the proper gear on the vessel.
“Make sure they have a sober driver, make sure you are staying hydrated, you have chargers for your phones and devices and a marine radio so if you do need anything, you can contact help,” said Aaron Leist, a captain in the sheriff’s office.
That advice also applies to renters of smaller vessels. In Port Clinton, staff at Beachfront Jet Ski Rentals say awareness is key.
“Just stay away from anyone else. Any jet skis, other boats, stay away from the shore of course, and just have a good time,” said manager Landon Witty. “We’re here for safety reasons and we’ll be out there if anything happens.”
Before heading out, officials recommend a simple checklist: test your equipment, appoint a sober operator and keep communication devices close. Emergency assistance is available via marine radio or phone.
“You can contact help on channel 16, or if you’re in cellphone range, call 911. Or #ODNR to reach our dispatch,” Grycza said.
This article was published by Maya May on 2025-07-02 17:49:00
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