More Traffic, More Safety Needed On Area Lakes

Be aware of your surroundings.

That’s the best advice as a long 4th of July weekend approaches at Dale Hollow Lake. Anna Wilbert operates Cedar Hill Marina located at the southwest portion of Dale Hollow Lake. Wilbert said preparation is the most important factor in having a safe and fun time.

“They really need to know the rules of the lake,” Wilbert said. “Like what the buoys mean, the color, what side you need to go on, safety is a big issue. It’s a very unforgiving lake, so I urge people to wear your life jackets.”

Wilbert said most accidents happen when people are not paying attention. Wilbert said you can expect the lake to be busy, even now, days before the fourth.

“We’re packed to the rim,” Wilbert said. “Parking is always an issue, to say the least, it’s how busy the 4th of July is, it’s the most popular holiday.”

Because it’s a holiday, people may be easily distracted. Wilbert said that can cause accidents. Also consider, the 4th of July is sometimes the first and only time people venture out on the water after dark.

“Be aware of all your surroundings,” Wilbert said. “When people are tubing people need to go more in a cove and not out on the main water where there are boats everywhere, because if someone gets flung you know people can’t just stop on a dime like you can in a car.”