YCSO amps up presence on area lakes

YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA, KECY)-With the summer season approaching, the Yuma County Sheriff's Office (YCSO)along with local and federal agencies, will increase patrols on the lakes and waterways.

YCSO says they see an increase in the waters from people coming from out of state. Although the Yuma County waterways are still open to the public, deputies strongly recommend to follow social distancing guidelines.

Avoid gathering in groups of more than 10 people and remain at least 6 feet apart from each other.

Deputies will keep enforcing boating laws and conducting multiple details during the summer months and the upcoming Memorial holiday weekend.

Deputies will be on the watch for reckless operation, bow riding, and other violations that risk operator and/or rider safety. Remember to use common sense when operating a boat or Jet Ski. This means operating at a safe speed at all times, especially in crowded areas.

YCSO says to avoid alcohol when operating a vessel.

Some of the most common boating violations observed are:

·         Operating Under the Influence (OUI)

·         Not enough life jackets (personal flotation devices) for everyone aboard the vessel

·         Children 12 years of age or younger not wearing a life jacket (personal floatation device) while underway

·         Excessive wake speed

·         Reckless operation of a personal watercraft

·         Riding on the bow, transom, or gunwales of a vessel operating above a wakeless speed

·         Fire Extinguisher—lack of, non-marine type, and/or out of service

·         No Type IV throw able personal floatation device on board

For more information regarding the Arizona boating laws and responsibilities, visit the Arizona Game & Fish Department website at www.azgfd.com/Boating or to download the Boater’s Handbook, visit https://assets.kalkomey.com/boater/pdfs/handbook/az_handbook_entire.pdf