The Shrewsbury Police announced an increase in patrols on Lake Quinsigamond over Independence Day Weekend.
This year the Shrewsbury Police, Worcester Police, Massachusetts Environmental Police, the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation, and United States Coast Guard have convened a Lake Quinsigamond Task Force.
On the water, the groups collaborate to enforce boating and watercraft violations, ensure the legal and safe operation of watercraft. On land, the Task Force enforces parking rules and regulations, and deter general criminal activity, with a focus on boat ramps.
The Independence Day holiday results in increased numbers of recreational boaters on the water and an increase in the number of injuries and deadly accidents related to boating under the influence.
State and local law enforcement agencies, the U.S. Coast Guard, and recreational boating safety advocates and the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators (NASBLA) are taking part in the campaign to help raise awareness and prevent tragedies related to boating under the influence.
Massachusetts law prohibits operating any vessel under the influence of drugs or alcohol. The law also prohibits boaters from operating within 150 feet of public or private swimming areas.
Law and safety officials urge boaters to operate their vessels at reasonable speeds based upon existing conditions, including traffic density, weather, and visibility. For inland waters, operating at a speed greater than 45 mph is considered excessive.
Authorities remind boaters that all boats require carrying personal floatation devices and all passengers less than 12 years of age must be in a lifejacket whenever above decks while underway.
All boating accidents must be reported to the Massachusetts Environmental Police at (800) 632-8075.
