DAYTON, Ky. — Boone County Water Rescue shares a good amount of boats are expected to be on the water this weekend. They're helping ODNR, Kentucky Fish and Wildlife, Hamilton County Police Association Dive Team, and Cincinnati Police and Fire with keeping people safe. 

Donny Schuckmann is a public safety diver with Boone County Water Rescue. He said more than 200 boats were seen in the area alone on Friday.

“With all the activity going on and all the people in the Cincinnati riverfront, it’s packed, so that’s why we’re out here to assist them,” Schuckmann said.

The crew is ready to help people keep safe during a weekend that falls around a holiday, sporting events and Taylor Swift coming to town.

“For instance, if they try and take off and their motor doesn’t start, or they run out of gas or have some kind of medical issue, we can be there to handle that,” Sgt. Cindy Wilson said. “We can get fuel to them, we can tow them if need be, and we can also have jump packs so we can start their motor back up again if they need it.”

They’re also asking boaters to keep safety in mind while heading out. Making sure safety devices are working and making sure everyone has a lifejacket helps. It’s also good to keep in mind that barge traffic has the right of way and to keep river channels clear.

Officials are also reminding people to not drink and drive.

“Think of it as driving your vehicle down the road. It is the same safety issues you’d have to deal with on the water,” Wilson said. “Be aware of your surroundings, be aware of other people’s surroundings because they may not be paying attention.”

Wilson and Schuckmann said Riverfest through Labor Day weekend is another moment they believe things will get hectic, in terms of boat traffic on the river. They encourage people to remember to stay safe.