DAYTON, Ohio — Memorial Day weekend is the unofficial kick-off to the summer season, which means people all across Ohio will be heading to state parks and waterways for fun in the sun.

That is why the Ohio Department of Natural Resources is advising visitors of Ohio’s state parks and waterways to balance holiday fun with precaution.

What You Need To Know

  • As Memorial Day weekend kicks off summer fun, ODNR is reminding people to balance fun with safety

  • Lifejackets are the most important piece of equipment when going boating

  • Alcohol is a leading contributor in boating accidents

  • ODNR welcomes back guests for much-needed fun and recreation

At Buck Creek State Park in Springfield, ODNR officers are getting prepared for the start of a new season. 

ODNR Sgt. Don Siler has been protecting Buck Creek State Park for more than 15 years. 

“The weather has been kinda weird this spring,” Siler said. “You know it’s been kinda hot the past couple of weeks but now we’re getting this cold chill.” 

But he said that isn’t gonna keep people away from the waterways, which is why he said knowing what to expect is so important. 

“First thing is, you just need to know your boat,” Siler said. “You need to make sure you have the required equipment on it. It’s pretty important for different situations; you find yourself in a storm, or someone falls overboard; things like that.

The most important safety tip is wearing a life jacket, he said.

“The law is on a boat less than 18 feet, children that are less than 10 years old always have to wear it,” Siler said. “Regardless of that, everybody on the boat needs to have a wearable life jacket that they can put on if they need it.” 

Since it is still spring, the water may be colder than it appears, which can have a shocking effect on swimmers. 

“The surface temperature is coming up, but four or five or six feet down it’s still pretty chilly,” he said.  

Reducing the risk of an accident is greatly important. One of the best ways to do that is to avoid drinking on the water.

“Alcohol is usually a contributing factor in one in three boating accidents nationwide, that includes Ohio,” Siler said. “So keep the alcohol off, go and enjoy yourself without the alcohol.” 

Big picture, he said, it’s great for guests to come to visit the state parks, but he wants everyone to do so safely. 

“Just have a good time, make those good decisions and you’ll be able to enjoy yourself out here. If you have any questions just ask.” 

For more information on water safety, click here to visit the ODNR website.