July Fourth: Peak Boating Season in the Hudson Valley

With one of the busiest boating weekends of the summer fast approaching, the Hudson Valley Patches want to remind everyone to be careful out there, whether you're on a lake, the Hudson River or Long Island Sound.

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Orange County officials announced that there will be stepped up Boating While Intoxicated enforcement throughout Orange County, including on the Hudson and Delaware rivers. The Orange County Sheriff, New York State Police and National Park Service will be among the agencies enforcing Boating While Intoxicated laws.

They also remind everyone of the importance of wearing life-jackets while boating, watching children in and around water.

Take the Safe Skipper's Pledge from the New York State Parks Department:

• I will assist those in need, and report any boating accident in which I'm involved.
• My boat will have USCG approved life jackets, of the proper size, in good condition and readily accessible.
• I will operate in a safe and careful manner, never recklessly, and never while under the influence.
• I will understand and follow the Rules of the Road.
• I will take a boating safety course.
• I will carry the proper equipment while underway, always in good condition and always readily accessible.
• Navigation aids serve as the road signs of the water. I will understand and obey them
• I will understand and follow the legal requirements for operating a personal watercraft.
• I will remember to follow the rules of safe boating, whether I am pulling skiers or tubers, skin diving, fishing or hunting.
• If my boat has a motor, I will register it with the Department of Motor Vehicles.