We’d like to take a moment to wish you and your family a very happy 4th of July!  From our family to yours, we hope you enjoy whatever you have planned, whether it’s a party at the beach or a quiet evening with friends.  Independence Day is celebrated across the nation in a variety of ways, and often capped off with a salute to our freedom with a dazzling display of illumination.  However, the fun can come to an abrupt halt when safety is ignored.

If you’re lucky enough to live near water and plan on spending the holiday on your boat, this 4th, make sure you are creating fond memories by adhering to the boat safety laws.  With so many people on the water, you’ll prevent accidents by practicing these rules:

  • Have enough lifejackets for everyone on board.
  • Children 12 and under must wear a lifejacket at all times when in the boat.
  • Respect the distance buoys and keep a safe distance from other boaters.
  • Follow local guidelines on speed limits.
  • Do not overload your boat…Know your maximum person capacity.
  • Have a working fire extinguisher.
  • You must have at least one throwable floatation device in addition to your lifejackets.
  • You must have a sound device like an air horn, whistle, or bell.
  • Check local laws for flares or flashlights for distress signals.
  • Make sure your registration numbers are displayed and carry a copy of your registration on your boat.
  • Your boat must be lit at night (from dusk to dawn) in accordance to local water laws.

Laws may differ from lake to lake or on the open seas, so it’s best to be prepared and knowledgeable about your local laws.  A boating accident can be serious, so be safe and keep a sharp eye out for others who may not be following the rules.  Many people on the water this season may not be frequent boaters and may not understand the rules of the road, so to speak.

If, however, you are in an accident and the boat is a loss, know that you can call ABH Services Disposal and Cleanout team.  We can haul away and dispose of your property.  Additionally, we practice recycling techniques that ensure our environment is protected so you don’t have to worry about your non-working boat being an eyesore on your lawn.

We hope your 4th is filled with great times, laughter, and enjoyment, and that you and your fellow boaters have a safe holiday.  Should you need our services, you can always call us at 781-941-2422.  You can also visit our Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/abhservices for more information about our Disposal and Cleanout Services.  Have a safe and happy 4th of July!