Sheriff: 'Review Your Fourth of July Water Safety Plan'

The summer got off to a chilly start and now warm weather is predicted for the holiday weekend – that means area lakes, rivers and swimming pools will likely attract large crowds over July 4th weekend.

The Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office responds to and investigates all water-related incidents and emergencies throughout the county. Keeping people safe and educating boaters and swimmers are priorities for the Sheriff’s Office.

Life Jackets Save Lives

• Most boating fatalities could have been prevented if life jackets had been worn.
• Everyone on board must have a life jacket readily accessible.
• State law requires children under age ten to wear a life jacket while the boat is underway.
• For those who are not strong swimmers and for children, consider using life jackets in swimming pools.  Active supervision is still needed even when life jackets are in use.

Alcohol

• An intoxicated boater is 10 times more likely to be involved in a fatal accident.
• Designate a sober boat operator prior to your day of boating.

Swimming Safety

• In Hennepin County in recent years, more drownings and near drownings have taken place in swimming pools and hot tubs – compared to lakes and rivers.
• Use “active supervision” when children are swimming or near water. This means to designate one adult to focus on watching the children in the water. The designated adult should not be distracted with a cell phone, magazine, or other activity.
• Many drownings take place while parents are nearby their children who are swimming – “being nearby” isn’t active supervision.
• Do not rely on inflatable water-wings or other toys to prevent drowning.
• A recent study found that a child drowns in a portable pool once every five days in during the summer. Put safety measures in place for portable pools and use active supervision.

• Drowning is silent and it happens quickly.  Parents will NOT hear splashing or cries for help.

Boating

• Be courteous and slow down!
• Lake Minnetonka has wake restrictions within 150 feet of shore and in channels – you are asked to manage your wake.
• If you are picking up swimmers, tubers, or skiers from the water, turn off your motor as people are boarding your boat --in order to avoid injuries from the propeller.