Sheriff Maciol Offers Boater Safety Tips

Just ahead of Memorial Day Weekend, Oneida County Sheriff Rob Maciol was joined by law enforcement and elected officials at Sylvan Beach on Wednesday to talk boater safety.

Maciol spoke about various boater safety issues, including the importance of wearing life jackets and the zero tolerance position the Sheriff's Office takes on those who operate boats while intoxicated.

Sylvan Beach Fire Chief Rick Johnson stressed the importance of knowing the waterway and the weather forecast before you head out on the lake.

"With summer fast approaching, our waterways will soon be bustling with activity from boaters who flock to Oneida County to enjoy our vast natural beauty and recreational opportunities," said Oneida County Executive Anthony Picente. "These visitors help drive our tourism economy by staying in our hotels, eating in our restaurants, shopping in our businesses and purchasing fuel and equipment for their boats. While we welcome this opportunity to showcase our area, safety must always be the top priority. I urge everyone using our waterways to be responsible in their recreation, and I thank Sheriff Maciol and all of the law enforcement agencies and first responders for the excellent job they do to keep people safe."