COLUMBUS, OH -- Ohio boaters are encouraged to safely enjoy the state's lakes and waterways during the upcoming Labor Day holiday weekend and in the weeks to follow.
"The Labor Day weekend represents one of Ohio's busiest boating times of the year on Ohio's waterways, so boaters need to exercise extra caution on the water," said Jeff Hoedt, chief of the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Division of Watercraft. "Safety, common sense and preparedness should be a priority for all boaters throughout the year."
To further promote safe boating, watercraft officers will distribute pledge cards to boaters over the Labor Day weekend. The pledge cards remind and ask boaters to wear their life jacket, remain sober and alert, stay in control of their watercraft, obey all navigation rules and to be respectful of other boaters.
The ODNR also notes that Ohio offers many excellent recreational boating opportunities during the fall. Ohio enjoys some of its best boating weather during September when the waterways are traditionally less congested. Pleasure boating, fishing, and even fall leaf viewing in October are also among the many boating opportunities to be enjoyed after the Labor Day weekend.
For additional information on Ohio's boating opportunities, safety tips and educational opportunities, plus fall fishing and leaf viewing opportunities, visit ODNR's web site at www.dnr.state.oh.us
For Further Information Contact:
John Wisse, ODNR Division of Watercraft
(614) 265-6695
-or-
Andy Ware, ODNR Media Relations
(614) 265-6882