News Release from: Marion Co. Sheriff's Office
HOLIDAY SAFETY TIPS
Posted: June 30th, 2011 10:32 AM
Photo/sound file: http://www.flashalertnewswire.net/images/news/2011-06/1294/45805/Boater_Safety.jpg (Focus on Boater Safety)
Photo/sound file: http://www.flashalertnewswire.net/images/news/2011-06/1294/45805/Highway_Safety.jpg (Extra Patrols on the Roads)
The Fourth of July Holiday weekend is only days away, and it's looking like we'll have great weather! The Marion County Sheriff's Office would like to wish all of its residents and visitors a safe and enjoyable holiday, but also want to encourage them to enjoy it responsibly.
If you're headed for Detroit Lake or the North Santiam River this weekend, remember that the water temperatures are still well below normal for this time of year. Cold water speeds the onset of hypothermia & fatigue and can catch a normally strong swimmer off guard. Additionally, river currents are running strong and fast with the higher water levels.
Take extra precautions. Wear life vests and watch your children carefully. Boaters are encouraged to wear their life vests while on the water and remember that the requirement for life vests is the same for rafts and canoes as it is for motorboats.
Sheriff's Marine Patrols at Detroit Lake will increase this weekend due to the expected crowds of boaters coming to watch the 10:00pm fire works show on Saturday July 2nd. The Yamhill Sheriff's Office Marine Patrol and the Newberg Fire & Rescue Team will be joining our Office to provide an additional level of service to boaters on the lake. Our MCSO volunteer group will be assisting at the boat ramps and they will also have a safety boat on the lake to provide tows if needed.
Commander Eric Hlad reminds boaters to avoid operating a boat after consuming alcohol. "Operating a boat while under the influence of intoxicants is a crime in Oregon and can come with a $5000.00 fine and up to a year in jail. Be safe and boat sober".
On the roadways, we'll be focusing on impaired and aggressive drivers. Additional patrols will be assigned to cite or arrest those who present dangers to other drivers and pedestrians. Traffic Safety Team Sergeant Craig Cunningham advises, "If you're planning to drink alcohol, be sure to assign someone as the designated driver".
In recent years we have experienced traffic congestion and safety issues surrounding the fireworks display at the Oregon Gardens on West Main Street in Silverton. We're asking for the public's help in avoiding the following conditions to provide an enjoyable experience for everyone.
In past years, families looking for a bargain seat have placed blankets along the shoulder of Cascade Highway. There is no guard rail in this area and it is extremely dangerous for everyone. You will be asked to leave the area if contacted by a deputy.
We've also received a number of complaints from the residents along Paradise Alley Road, in Silverton. Spectators have illegally parked cars on the roadway or blocking driveways, limiting access for emergency vehicles. Illegally parked vehicles will be cited and towed.
Finally, Sgt. Cunningham reminds us that "The St Paul Rodeo begins on Friday and goes through Monday. Traditionally, traffic on River Road North and Highway 219 is very congested. We will have extra patrols working that area, watching for aggressive drivers and those driving under the influence of alcohol". Remind all passengers to buckle up and report aggressive and impaired drivers to 911.
Have a safe and enjoyable holiday weekend!
