First Responders and Local Officials Hold Annual Summer…

First Responders and Local Officials Hold Annual Summer Boater's Safety Gathering During National Boater Safety Week & Ahead of Memorial Day Weekend in Sylvan Beach.

Oneida County Sheriff Robert Maciol, members of the Oneida County Sheriff's Office Marine Patrol Unit, Onondaga County Sheriff Tobias Shelley, members of the Oswego & Madison County Sheriff's Office, NYS Police Acting Troop D Commander Kevin Reilly, Sylvan Beach Mayor Rich Sullivan, 2nd Assistant Chief Ryan Voorhees of the Sylvan Beach Fire Department, and Oneida County Tourism President Sarah Foster Calero gathered this morning during National Boater Safety Week and just ahead of the Memorial Day Weekend to address boater safety, traffic safety, beach safety & local law issues, along with summer events. The event was held at the emergency wall on the canal adjacent to the Route 13 bridge.

All of the law enforcement agencies present want to stress the importance of wearing life jackets, the zero tolerance position they take on those who operate boats while intoxicated, and the requirement (as of January 1, 2025) that all operators of motorized vessels must have a valid NYS Boater's Safety certificate. If you have any questions regarding the boater's safety courses, you can call the Oneida County Sheriff’s Office at 315-765-2222. You can also visit the NYS Office of Parks Recreation and Historic Preservation’s website at www.nysparks.com/boats or call 1-800-336-2628 to get information on the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary & U.S. Power Squadron Boater Safety Course dates and locations.

“In 2022 nationwide, 75% of boating accident deaths were drownings and 3 out of every 4 drowning victims were not wearing life jackets, so it is clear that personal flotation devices clearly work and they clearly save lives”, according to Oneida County Sheriff Maciol.

“As we head into the Memorial Day weekend, a time when many Oneida County residents and visitors take to our waterways, we want to remind everyone to be safe and use caution when boating,” said Oneida County Executive Anthony J. Picente Jr. “We have a lot to look forward to this summer, and we can avoid unnecessary tragedy by wearing life jackets at all times, taking boater safety courses and never, ever operating a watercraft under the influence of alcohol or drugs. As always, our County Sheriff’s Office will be patrolling and making sure that the law is followed and waterways are safe for all.”

Onondaga County Sheriff Tobias Shelley emphasizes the importance of unity and shared responsibility across county lines, stating:

“Oneida County may not be connected to Onondaga County by land, but we are connected by Oneida Lake—and that connection demands a shared commitment to safety on the water.”

"As Acting Troop D Commander, I am proud to stand with the Sheriffs and all of our law enforcement partners as we work together to keep residents and visitors safe ahead of the Memorial Day weekend", according to Acting Troop D Commander Kevin Reilly.

'If you’re going to be boating this Memorial Day weekend, we encourage you all to follow the rules and be safe. Please be respectful of other boaters and remember to thank a Veteran for their service. Stay safe!", according to Madison County Sheriff Todd Hood.

"As the busy summer season approaches, we’re excited to welcome both visitors and locals to enjoy our lakes, natural beauty, and the many small businesses that make Oneida County so special. We encourage everyone—residents included—to take full advantage of what our region offers. But with more people on the water, it’s essential to follow boater safety regulations and local laws. Doing so protects not just yourself, but everyone around you. I encourage all boaters to familiarize themselves with the rules, and when in doubt, reach out to local law enforcement", according to Sara Foster Calero - Oneida County Tourism President.

“We look forward to working with all the agencies that patrol local waterways to provide a safe and enjoyable boating season”, according to Oswego County Sheriff Don Hilton.

"As Memorial Day approaches, we welcome the return of Boating Season and the Village of Sylvan Beach is busy preparing for another exciting summer, ensuring everything is ready for residents and visitors alike. Our Village staff has been hard at work beautifying the area, planting trees and flowers to enhance our scenic charm. Restaurants and entertainment venues are already in full swing, with live music and vibrant nightlife setting the tone for a fantastic season. While many beloved favorites are open and ready to serve, we are also excited to introduce some new businesses that will soon be joining our community. Sylvan Beach has long been a cherished boating destination, and we can’t wait to reconnect with old friends while welcoming new ones. As you take to the water, we kindly remind everyone to follow boating laws—not only for your safety but for the well-being of those around you. Please be courteous and responsible while boating on Oneida Lake. Wishing you a safe and enjoyable season—see you soon at Sylvan Beach", according to Sylvan Beach Mayor Richard Sullivan.

Sylvan Beach Fire Department 2nd Assistant Chief Ryan Voorhees stressed "the importance of knowing the waterway and the weather forecast before you head out on the lake".

Key Boating Safety Facts and Reminders:

• Wear a Life Jacket: According to the U.S. Coast Guard, 84% of boating fatalities in 2022 involved victims who were not wearing life jackets. Life jackets save lives—wear them at all times, especially when water conditions change quickly.

• Don’t Boat Under the Influence: Operating a vessel under the influence of drugs or alcohol is illegal and extremely dangerous. Alcohol is the leading known contributing factor in fatal boating accidents, accounting for about 16% of boating deaths. Boaters are encouraged to designate a sober operator for every outing.

• Take a Boating Safety Course: New York State requires all motorboat operators born after January 1, 1988, to complete a boater safety course. By 2025, all operators of motorized watercraft regardless of age will need certification. Courses teach critical safety procedures, navigation rules, and emergency protocols.

• Watch the Weather: Sudden storms and high winds can quickly make waterways hazardous. Always check the forecast before launching and return to shore if conditions deteriorate.

• Stay Alert and Aware: Always maintain a proper lookout and operate at a safe speed. Collisions with other vessels or fixed objects remain among the top causes of boating accidents.

• Know Your Equipment: Regularly inspect your boat’s engine, navigation lights, fuel systems, and communication devices. Keep a throwable flotation device, fire extinguisher, and whistle onboard.

• File a Float Plan: Let someone know your destination, expected return time, and vessel description before heading out. It helps emergency responders locate you more quickly in an emergency.

Boating is a privilege that comes with responsibility. Let’s work together to keep Oneida Lake and all our waterways safe for everyone. Enjoy the summer—and make safety your priority.