Thunder Over Louisville, the largest firework show in North America, is expected to draw a crowd of around 600,000 people. While most of those spectators will be on land, event organizers predict around 450 boaters may watch from the water.
The Coast Guard is gearing up for a busy day. They're reminding boaters that there will be a no entry zone from Towhead to McAlpine Locks from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday and 12 p.m. to midnight Saturday. During those times, there will be a minimal wake zone from Towhead to six mile.
The Coast Guard is also urging boaters to be prepared by getting the vessel out ahead of time, checking the anchoring systems, running through the engine systems and making sure there are enough life jackets on board.
"There's no boating and drinking. That is the state law in both Indiana and Kentucky. That's just as bad as drinking and driving," Lt. David Scneider with the U.S Coast Guard said.
Between local, federal and state agencies, there will be ten units out patroling the Ohio River. Schneider said the Coast Guard has been working with the other agencies to make sure there are cohesive security plans in place.