GRDA 4th of July Update

• Know the Laws and Regulations. All too often we hear "I didn't know" from violators when they are caught. Well, the adage Ignorance of the Law is No Excuse certainly applies. Whether you are operating a boat, ATV, raft, kayak or canoe, it carries a certain responsibility that you will know how to do so responsibly and lawfully. Ignorance is an excuse, not a defense. Regulations that apply to GRDA waters can be viewed at our website at GRDA.com.
• Obey the Laws and Regulations. Too many people choose to ignore the laws in the hope they won't get caught, all in the interest of "having a good time". Remember that your risk of being caught by authorities is greater now than any other time of the year!  The laws and regulations are there for one reason, to SAVE LIVES! Even if we don't catch you, ask yourself if it is worth the risk of putting the lives of you and your loved ones in jeopardy?
• Use your Life Jackets. The vast majority of deaths that occur on our waters result from drowning, yet your risk of drowning is greatly diminished when wearing a personal floatation device. If you are on a moving boat, raft, kayak or canoe, you should always be wearing a life jacket. Thanks to current technology, the excuse that life jackets are "too bulky, heavy and uncomfortable" no longer applies. While the law mandates that children under 13 years of age must be wearing a life jacket while on a moving vessel, we encourage everybody to do so, because like a seat belt, your life jacket can save your life in the split second in which a tragedy occurs. Even apparent low-risk water activities can take a life. All too often we investigate drownings involving adults and children that were simply swimming or wading in what was believed to be shallow water, near a dock or playing close to shore. You never know what hazards are present in the water, so protect yourself and your children anytime they are near the water!
• Alcohol & Water Don't Mix. Very few tragedies occur on our waters where alcohol was not a factor. When you are operating a vessel, you should be the "designated driver" for the safety of everyone. Not only will alcohol effect your judgment, but it will slow your reaction. Combined with dehydration, too much sun, exhaustion and the effects of being on the water for an extended period of time, and you have a recipe for disaster. Boat Safe, Boat Smart, Boat Sober!
• Prep your Vessel. Check your boat, raft, canoe or other vessel before you launch. The lack of fuel, dead battery or inoperable navigation lights can result in a bad time on the water. Have your boat serviced and safety inspected before you get near the water. Ensure there are properly fitted life jackets on board for everyone on the vessel, and they must be Readily Accessible (not stowed in a compartment) while you are on the water. Failure to adhere to this advice can not only result in a costly citation, but your vessel will also be removed from our waters till your equipment is in compliance.
• Watch the Weather. We all know how quickly Oklahoma weather can turn this time of year. Before you launch, check the forecast and be prepared to take action should things turn bad. Have a radio, smartphone or other electronic device with you on the water that can notify you of potential inclement weather. Don't wait till the dark clouds are overhead before you head for safety, because by then, it may be too late!
• Be Courteous. When large numbers of people gather together, there is always the potential for conflicts, so be respectful of the rights and enjoyment of others. Some people believe they can come to the lake and behave as they wish, because "no rules apply".  That is NOT the case. That is why we are here to enforce the rules of society, so be respectful to others and their property. Loud music, excessive drinking, loud, obnoxious behavior, creating wakes damaging the property of others, excessive lights at night are all actions that can result in police intervention, so keep your behavior polite and courteous.

GRDA Police will be out in force this holiday to fulfill our mission of keeping our waters safe. We are there to provide any assistance you need. Our Emergency Dispatch Center will be staffed and ready to respond to your calls for help. For an EMERGENCY call 911. Other assistance can be provided by calling the non-emergency number at 918-256-0911.