Baker Blows Whistle On Swimming Outside The Lines In MA

BOSTON, MA —In response to a string of recent drownings across Massachusetts, Governor Charlie Baker will file legislation Thursday to increase fines to swimmers who venture outside of designated waterfronts.

The legislation, “An Act Relative to Enhanced Enforcement of Swimming Limitations,” would increase the maximum fine to $500 for entering or swimming in any waters on Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) property that are not designated for swimming.

This legislation is designed to cut down on open water swimming by providing ropes and boys, water quality testing and lifeguards to help prevent dangerous situation for swimmers.

Just this morning, Boston Police sent teams out to look for a missing swimmer near Castle Island in Dorchester.

"...we have already seen far too many tragic accidental drownings occur already this year,” said Lieutenant Governor Karyn Polito in a statement about the legislation.

It was just a few weeks ago that a police officer and a 14-year-old both drowned at the hand of Green Hill Pond in Worcester.

Currently, the fines for swimming in areas that are not allowed ranges from $20 to $200. Baker is initiating the increase of fines to stress the importance of water safety.

“This legislation is part of a comprehensive plan to discourage risky behavior and ensure the safety of visitors to our state parks and beaches,” said Governor Charlie Baker. “...we urge the public to exercise caution and not swim at any body of water that has not been designated for swimming by state or local authorities.”

The DCR has produced and posted dozens of new swimming safety signs at DCR parks and beaches and is offering a Learn to Swim program, which offers free swimming lessons at 12 locations for people of all ages.