As the nation celebrates its 250th birthday, St. Petersburg is expecting a significant surge in boating traffic. The St. Petersburg Police Department’s marine unit is deploying all available resources to oversee the massive holiday influx, with crowds expected to cause water traffic to swell up to four times the normal summer rate.

Boating Safety

Officer Scott Pierce emphasized the importance of patience and safety on the water. ‘Patience is key. Never be in a rush. Never be in hurry. Give people grace. There’s a lot of people on the water. Just because you think they can go somewhere doesn’t mean they can. So, just give grace, have patience, and remember you’re having fun,’ Pierce said.

Multiple law enforcement agencies, including the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and local sheriff’s offices, are working together on strict enforcement. Boating under the influence is a criminal misdemeanor carrying severe penalties, including immediate jail time, major financial liabilities, and the loss of a driver’s license.

Fireworks Plan

A designated 1,200-foot safety zone marked by large buoys will be established Saturday afternoon around the city fireworks barge near the St. Petersburg Pier. Spectators are welcome to anchor anywhere outside this designated boundary to watch the pyrotechnics launch 200 feet into the air.

Vessel operators must ensure their boats carry enough life jackets for all passengers, a sound-producing device, a throwable cushion or life ring, and a kill switch lanyard. Captains must monitor regional weather applications continuously and immediately seek shelter if lightning or thunder develops in the area.

Original reporting: Tampa Bay Florida News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.