Summertime means trips to the lake and fun on the water, so the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife is reminding residents to take extra precautions to have a safe and enjoyable time.
KFW says thoroughly check that required equipment is present and in good working order before launching your boat. Watch weather forecasts and stay aware of your surroundings. Make sure somebody on the shore knows your itinerary and the passengers going out on the water with you. Ensure that Coast Guard-approved life jackets are readily available and are worn by children 12 and under at all times.
Jon Fillingham is the projects manager for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers at Rough River Lake. He says boaters and swimmers should make sure to follow all posted signage and stay away from prohibited areas.
“There are quite a few places that have prohibited swimming areas, such as we don’t allow swimming at our boat ramps or off our fishing piers, and there’s reasons for that, and it’s because there’s underwater hazards or there’s something else that makes it a dangerous situation,” Fillingham said.
Officials are reminding residents that alcohol and water do not mix. Operating a boat while intoxicated is just as dangerous as operating a motor vehicle while intoxicated, and Fillingham says impairment on the water sets in in a different way.
“It’s a lot different when you’re outside on the water,” Fillingham said. “The wave action, the sun beating down on you, the noise, and just the environment you are in causes your ability to decrease much more significantly than if you were in a controlled environment, say sitting on your back porch or sitting at your house.”
Boaters are encouraged to check out the 2024-2025 Kentucky Fishing and Boating Guide.
