DNREC, Citizens' Hose install life rings at Woodland Beach

SMYRNA — The Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control teamed up with the Citizens’ Hose Co. to install buoyant life rings at the Woodland Beach fishing pier and boat ramp Wednesday.

“This is the 138th year for the all-volunteer Citizens’ Hose Co. Since our founding in 1886, we have responded to water rescues in our area. We know time is everything,” said former state Sen. Bruce Ennis, a board member of the company. “That’s why Citizens’ Hose partnered with DNREC’s Division of Fish and Wildlife to provide these throwable life rings as a vital first response, while we are on our way.”

During a ceremony marking the installation, the department’s secretary Shawn Garvin and Natural Resources police reiterated the following safety tips for boaters:

• State law requires children 12 and younger to wear lifejackets while boating. It’s recommended for everyone onboard to wear a lifejacket, but one must be easily accessible and properly fitted for all those over 12.

• Adhere to “Slow No Wake” areas to prevent collisions and damage.

• Keep a watchful eye and maintain a safe distance from other vessels.

• Ensure navigation lights are working during low visibility.

• Carry a boating education card and required safety equipment, including a sound-producing device, a fire extinguisher, a lifesaving cushion or ring buoy and navigation lights.

• Canoes, kayaks and paddleboards require lifejackets and a sound-producing device onboard. A flashlight is also required during times of low visibility.

• Alcohol use is a leading cause of fatal boating accidents. Always designate a sober operator.

Delaware mandates an online boater safety course for those born on or after Jan. 1, 1978. Boaters must carry proof of completion.

The circular life preservers installed at Woodland Beach are expected to heighten safety in the water.

“Some of our fishing piers and boat ramps already have these life rings. With the Citizens’ Hose Co. and their stalwart member and longtime president, former state Sen. Bruce Ennis, we now have these rings available at Woodland Beach,” Mr. Garvin said.

The life rings were funded by the fire company and installed by Fish and Wildlife staff.