Expect increased police presence across Hudson Valley for holiday weekend, even in the water
It's not just drivers who should be following the rules this holiday weekend in the Hudson Valley. Boaters can expect to see more law enforcement vessels in the waters, as well.
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Boaters can expect to see more law enforcement vessels in the waters this Fourth of July holiday weekend.
The Westchester County Police Department wrote on Twitter that its Marine Unit "will have an increased presence on the Hudson River and Long Island Sound from tonight through the July 4 holiday to ensure boater safety and to participate in a nationwide Boating While Intoxicated enforcement campaign."
The Marine Unit's Sergeant John Butcher says that this is the time of year that a lot of new boaters also hit the water, which create additional dangers.
"People who may have bought a boat during the off-season are finally starting to get into it now when they have free time," he said. He added that two boat crashes occurred earlier this week that could have been prevented, meaning, "the season's already off to an unfortunate start."
Butcher and members of his unit will be putting in extra work for three straight days this holiday weekend.
Independence Day is one of the deadliest holidays on the roads, according to data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
Nearly 1,500 drivers were killed over the holiday weekend between 2017 and 2021.
Authorities are reminding people it's just as much of a crime to drive a boat while intoxicated as it is to operate a motor vehicle.
