Tips For A Happy And Safe Summer In North Hempstead

PORT WASHINGTON, NY — Summer is around the corner on Long Island. And with that, officials in the Town of North Hempstead are reminding residents to follow their safety tips while out and about.

Below is a list of precautions that the Town wants you to take:

Pool Safety

• Parents should review pool safety precautions with the entire family whether using a pool at a Town facility or a private pool at home
• The Town also requires that residents put up a fence to separate their house from the pool
  • There must be a fence at least 6 feet high around all sides of the pool, as well as self-closing and self-latching gates that secure from the inside
  • Homeowners should inspect fences periodically to make sure they are not in disrepair

Boating Safety Tips

• Ensure that you have the correct safety gear and equipment before you get out on the water, such as a first aid kit, life jackets, and distress signals
• Check weather conditions before heading out on the water
• Wear a life jacket every time you are out on the water
  • United States Coast Guard estimated that over 80% of fatal boating accident victims could have been saved with the use of a life jacket
  • Life jackets must be readily accessible; not in packaging or buried below other gear
• Make sure all life jackets are U.S. Coast Guard approved and in good condition with no rips or tears
• Replace worn-out jackets so when needed, they will provide the buoyancy necessary to keep you afloat and alive
• Size matters when it comes to life jacket selection and use
  • When boating with children, make sure they are wearing properly sized and fitted life jackets
  • Children must not be able to slide out of life jackets when they hit the water
• Don't operate a vessel while impaired by alcohol or drugs
  • Alcohol use is the leading contributing factor in fatal boating accidents
• Pay attention to your surroundings and boat responsibly
  • 77% of deaths on boats occurred where the operator had no boating safety instruction