DECATUR. (WCIA) — All eyes are on the weather for the Fourth of July and it’s expected to be perfect in Central Illinois. Many people may be planning to hop on a boat, but those who work around lakes want to make sure safety is first.

Officials said they want to make sure anyone going out on a boat comes back. Hundreds of people will be coming in to Decatur this weekend for the holiday. The city’s Water Production Manager, Robert Weil, said there are a few rules and regulations everyone needs to follow when out on a boat.

Weil said all children under the age of 13 must have on life jackets. Boaters should also respect the water like watching out for oil leaks and wildlife. Lastly, Weil said to stay away from drinking and driving on the water.

“Water is different. Water has its own risks. And if you’re new, take time to take a boating safety course so that you know how to work your watercraft,” Weil said.

He said boat safety courses will be online through the Illinois Department of Natural Resources.
He also said if an emergency does happen, reach out to lake patrol. The patrol unit focuses on finding people who are being unsafe — if they see unsafe activity, they will issue tickets.