NRP Urges Safety over Holiday Weekend

Annapolis, Md. (August 30, 2012) –  The Maryland Natural Resources Police (NRP) reminds citizens to make safety a priority during the last holiday weekend of the summer.

“Labor Day is the beginning of fall,” said Col. George F Johnson IV. “And as the cooler weather sets in, Marylanders will continue to enjoy camping, boating and fishing in the cooler September weather, and, as various hunting seasons begin. We urge everyone to make safety the top priority while enjoying these activities.”

As in the past, NRP will step up its enforcement in an effort to maintain safe waterways. Over the weekend, NRP will focus their enforcement effort on those activities that contribute to boating accidents, such as alcohol, negligent operation, bow riding and navigational violations.

Mariners are reminded to prepare for foul weather. With the remnants of Hurricane Isaac moving up the coast, boaters should be aware of possible high tides, debris in the waterways and the possibility of missing or misplaced navigational aids. Inspect all vessels for any damage, debris or water on board before leaving the dock.

The cooler weather signals a renewed interest in camping and park recreation during the fall. NRP reminds State Park and campground visitors to obey the law and be courteous to other visitors. Hikers and campers should inform friends or relatives of their plans before they depart, including destination and trip length. This information will help NRP if campers/hikers do not return on time.

September is the start of the hunting season, including dove, early resident goose, squirrel and deer seasons. NRP reminds hunters to always think about safety before entering the field, marsh or woodlands. Remember to always point your weapon in a safe direction and identify your target before pulling the trigger. Also, always use a fall restraint system when hunting from elevated platforms. First time hunters are reminded of the requirement to complete a hunter safety course before going hunting. For more information on hunting safety courses please visit http://www.dnr.maryland.gov/nrp/hunter_education.asp.

The Maryland Natural Resources Police is the enforcement arm of the Department of Natural Resources (DNR). With an authorized strength of 247 officers and a dedicated staff of civilian and volunteer personnel, the NRP provide a variety of services in addition to conservation, maritime and law enforcement duties throughout the State of Maryland. These services include homeland security, search and rescue, emergency medical services, education, information and communications services on a round the clock basis. NRP is the only police force aside from the Maryland State Police that has statewide jurisdiction.

The Maryland Department of Natural Resources is the state agency responsible for providing natural and living resource-related services to citizens and visitors. DNR manages nearly one-half million acres of public lands and 17,000 miles of waterways, along with Maryland's forests, fisheries and wildlife for maximum environmental, economic and quality of life benefits. A national leader in land conservation, DNR-managed parks and natural, historic and cultural resources attract 11 million visitors annually. DNR is the lead agency in Maryland's effort to restore the Chesapeake Bay, the state's number one environmental priority. Learn more at www.dnr.maryland.gov