Prioritizing Safety: Boating and July 4th Reminders
Jul 03, 2026 11:35AM ● By Editor
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By: Cook County Sheriff, Ben Hallberg - July 3, 2026
County Connections is a column on timely topics and service information from your Cook County government. Cook County – Supporting Community Through Quality Public Service.
By: Cook County Sheriff, Ben Hallberg - July 3, 2026
As the Fourth of July holiday approaches and more people head outdoors to enjoy the waters, the Cook County Sheriff’s Office is reminding residents and visitors to keep safety top of mind. The temperature is rising and the lakes are warming up. The fish have started to bite, unfortunately so have the bugs. Days are already starting to get shorter, and this time of year boaters and fisherman are out on lakes in large numbers. We want to make sure everyone on the water has a fun but safe time. Here are some things to think about when out on the water:
- Bring proper life jackets – please make sure you have enough life jackets in your boat for every person and make sure they fit correctly. An adult life jacket will not work for a smaller child.
- Check the weather – Always check and recheck the weather forecast prior to going out on the water. Storms can pop up without notice; make sure you are prepared or delay your trip if it doesn’t look good.
- Don’t exceed the boats capacity – exceeding the limit may put your boat at risk of capsizing.
- Don’t drink and drive – If you are operating the boat, don’t drink. Keep everyone in your boat safe by staying sober while operating a boat.
Starting on July 1, 2025, a new law requires some adults and youth who operate motorboats—including personal watercraft—to have a valid watercraft operator's permit. This law is designed to make boating safer by ensuring everyone operating a motorized watercraft knows the rules and is properly trained.
Learn more about the new law here: https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/safety/boatwater/boater-education-law.html
With 4th of July right around the corner, below are some safety tips for an enjoyable holiday weekend.
- Only use Minnesota-legal fireworks like sparklers, fountains, ground spinners, and snappers.
- Illegal fireworks in Minnesota are the following:
- Any fireworks that are explosive
- Any fireworks that are aerial
- Only certified operators licensed by the State Fire Marshal are allowed to possess or use these types of fireworks.
- When using legal fireworks remember:
- Point fireworks away from people and animals.
- Use fireworks in an open area away from trees and houses.
- Extinguish and dispose of spent fireworks in a bucket of water.
- Do not try to relight a dud.
- Always use caution around fireworks and make sure children are supervised.
Reference and more information: https://dps.mn.gov/divisions/sfm/fire-safety/fire-safety-tips/fireworks-safety
Your awareness and preparation make a difference. Thank you for helping stay safe this holiday weekend and the rest of the summer. Enjoy good company and nice weather!
County Connections is a column on timely topics and service information from your Cook County government. Cook County – Supporting Community Through Quality Public Service.
