Keeping boaters safe: Effort underway as folks hit the water to enjoy the sunshine

OKAUCHEE LAKE (WITI) -- It was a beautiful Memorial Day weekend -- and on Okauchee Lake -- boats were on the water as folks looked to relax and soak up the sun. Also on the water on Sunday, May 25th were Waukesha County Sheriff's Department personnel -- working to make sure everyone stayed safe.

Memorial Day weekend is typically busy out on area lakes -- and with perfect weather this weekend -- it was no different.

"It's going to be crowded out here today," Waukesha County Sheriff's Deputy Jeff Haren said.

"Everyone is wanting to get out on the lake as fast as they can," Waukesha County Sheriff's Detective Jeff Adent said.

"The biggest thing is to take your time," Deputy Haren said.

Haren and Adent on Sunday afternoon checked boats on Okauchee Lake to make sure boaters were following the rules.

"We need to make sure everybody's got a life preserver," Detective Adent said.

During a two-hour span, four groups were stopped. All but one group was sent on their way.

"You don't have a fire extinguisher.  You can't be out on the lake without one," Adent and Haren told one group.

The Sea Dog was escorted back home.

Okauchee Lake is busy -- and summer is just getting started!

Adent and Haren say Memorial Day weekend is similar to the first snowfall of the winter.

Boaters are trying to get back into the swing of things -- and sometimes need reminders.

CLICK HERE for information on boating safety via the Wisconsin DNR's website.