May is National Water Safety Month and the Scott County Sheriff’s Office is proud to join the nationwide effort to raise awareness about water safety and promote responsible boating practices. In line with this initiative, Sheriff Luke Hennen is pleased to announce the implementation of a new life jacket loaner station at Sand Point Beach on Prior Lake.
This program is the result of a collaborative effort between the Scott County Sheriff's Office and the City of Prior Lake and is made possible through a grant through the Sea Tow Foundation. This addition will enable beachgoers and boaters to have easy access to life jackets and ensure their safety while enjoying the water.
Prior Lake City Councilmember Kevin Burkart, who played a pivotal role in conceiving this program, expressed his enthusiasm about the initiative, stating, “Water safety is a top priority, and this program will provide an invaluable resource for our community members. I want to thank the Scott County Sheriff's Office for their dedication to keeping our lakes safe and for their partnership in making this program a reality.”
Sheriff Luke Hennen added, “We recognize the vital role that life jackets play in preventing drownings and saving lives on the water. This initiative reinforces our dedication to ensuring the safety and well-being of our community members while enjoying our beautiful lakes.”
The Scott County Sheriff's Office will be responsible for maintaining the life jacket station and ensuring an adequate supply of properly fitted life jackets for all ages. Individuals visiting Sand Point Beach will have the opportunity to borrow life jackets free of charge during their visit, ensuring that everyone has access to this vital piece of safety equipment.
The implementation of the life jacket loaner station underscores the collective commitment of the Scott County Sheriff's Office, the City of Prior Lake, and the Sea Tow Foundation in promoting water safety and preserving lives on our lakes. The Scott County Sheriff's Office encourages all boaters and beachgoers to take advantage of this program and prioritize the use of life jackets to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience on the water.
For more information about the life jacket loaner program, please contact the Sgt. Jacob Edwinson at 952-496-8316 or jedwinson@co.scott.mn.us.
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Left to right: Sgt. Jacob Edwinson, Sheriff Luke Hennen, Prior Lake City Councilmember Kevin Burkart, Prior Lake Parks and Recreation Manager Steve Hart, Rec Safety Deputy Max Kes
Life jacket station located at Sand Point Beach on Prior Lake