Scott County is known for its many local lakes and the Minnesota River that make up our beautiful community. May is National Water Safety Month and is the perfect time to ensure you and your family are prepared to spend a fun, safe day by the water. The Memorial Day holiday weekend is just around the corner and many of our local families will be headed out with their boats, kayaks, or to swim at local pools and beaches for well-deserved fun and relaxation.
“We know people are going to go out to have fun, but we want people to do it in a safe way,” says Sheriff Luke Hennen. “We strongly encourage everybody to follow all safety regulations and laws, as well as to use common sense and respectful procedures while boating or during other forms of recreation on the water.”
It is important to educate yourself and others about basic boating safety regulations and the Sheriff’s Office encourages all boaters to take a boating safety course to legally operate a motorized boat or personal watercraft on Minnesota waters.
Please keep these tips in mind when spending time in or around the water this spring and summer:
•Wear a life jacket.
•Do not drink if you plan to be involved in water-related activities.
•Swim only in designated areas with proper supervision.
•Bring a charged cell phone and marine radio with you.
•Take extra precautions when boating or swimming with young children.
•Never overestimate swimming or boating skills.
•Avoid unnecessary distractions.
•Have proper safety equipment and gear.
•Stay out of the water in bad weather.
By reminding our friends and neighbors of these helpful safety tips, we wish everyone a happy and safe summer.
For more information about National Water Safety Month, visit www.nationalwatersafetymonth.org
For more information on boat and water safety, visit https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/safety/boatwater/index.html