Reminder to practice water and boat safety for the Fourth of July

HOLYOKE, Mass. (WWLP) – The countdown to one of the busiest days on the water is just days away, but there are some things you should know before you venture out.

Land of the free, and home to the brave and many boaters. In just a couple of days, Holyoke Rows members and others will fill the Connecticut River.

Whether you’re in the water or the one behind the grill… It’s important to remember to celebrate safely. Director of Holyoke Rows, Stephanie Moore told 22News, “You know, come to enjoy the river, play and jet skis, paddle boats, and kayaks, and then go home and have your BBQ and drink at home where you are safe.”

With a busy holiday on the water, you’ll want to look out for others. It’s recommended to stay in pairs when swimming or on a kayak. Remember to rotate in and out of the water, stay hydrated, and take a break in the shade to help you stay alert whether swimming or boating.

Some tell us they always take safety into consideration. Derrell Cannon of Holyoke says, “I go swimming sometimes if I’m on the boat, and I wear a life jacket when I go into the water.”

Experts say staying sober and wearing a life jacket is the best path to take on the river. In Massachusetts, life jackets must be worn by those in a kayak or canoe from May 15 to September 15, and at all times if under 12 years old or on a watercraft.

“The Fourth of July is a holiday where there are usually a lot of motor boats on the water, jet skis and people having a great time, they may not be aware of you if you’re in a kayak or swimming and they may be drinking which is a dangerous part of the holiday,” Moore adds.

Stephanie says any Holyoke Row member getting on the water this Fourth of July should be wearing a life jacket and for those who aren’t members, she still says wearing a snug life jacket is your best bet to be safe.

You can always borrow a life jacket from Holyoke Rows. It’s free and available to anyone at the river. Safety is needed to celebrate.

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