Officials call for water safety in Valley during Memorial Day weekend

FRESNO COUNTY, Calif. (KFSN) — People were enjoying the water of Shaver Lake Saturday afternoon.

Despite the sun, it was a little cool.

But that didn't stop them from boarding a boat, jet ski or kayak.

For some families, it was their first visit to Shave Lake.

“It was pretty cool, it was pretty cold,” Noah Roshan said.

While people were having a good time, the Fresno County Sheriff's Office was also there, making sure people on boats and jet skis were following the rules.

“If you're on the water, all the lakes in Fresno County have a traffic pattern,” says Deputy Zachary Westbrook. “You want to stay counterclockwise around the lake.”

But you don't just have to watch the other boats.

Deputy Westbrook says more water should fill the lake.

For this reason, he adds that people should also be aware of what is in the water.

“It's going to hide some obstacles in the water, making it a little harder to see while still being able to hit, which could cause accidents,” he said.

As the weather continues to warm, more people will head to the water to cool off.

The Sheriff's Office emphasizes the importance of obtaining a California Boating Card if you wish to operate a boat.

“It gives you a very little understanding of boater safety and different laws on the water,” Westbrook said. “It’s just the beginning, but it’s a good start.”

If your boat breaks down while you are on the water, you can contact the marina or sheriff's office to help you tow it away.

MPs want to remind people to have their life jackets with them when on the boat.

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