Houston Fire Department officials have urged extra precautions on Lake Houston during July 4th celebrations after recent fatalities on the water.
HOUSTON — With Fourth of July celebrations approaching, Houston Fire Department officials are urging families to be cautious if they’re heading to Lake Houston — especially after a recent tragedy on the water.
“We’re ready to respond, but we must also work together to prevent these water related incidents from happening,” Chief Thomas Muñoz said.
The department’s warning follows the death of Ashley Gil, 20, who died on Lake Houston last month. According to authorities, Gil was riding a WaveRunner near Deussen Park on June 17 when she fell into the water and never resurfaced. Her body was recovered days later.
“Whether it’s time at a lake, pool, beach, or around the house, there are things we can do to stay safe,” Muñoz said.
Since May, HFD responded to 18 water rescue calls on area lakes and bayous. Three of those incidents were fatal, according to officials.
“The water is unforgiving and that’s something we need to remember,” said HFD Captain Beau Moreno. “Anything can happen at any hour on the water.”
To help emergency crews respond faster, Moreno said boaters on Lake Houston should learn the six color-coded zones used to map the lake. The zones are marked on maps posted at boat ramps and online. First responders rely on that information to locate people in distress.
“If you’re calling 911, you say you have an emergency, let us know what zone you’re in that way we can find you,” Moreno said.
Moreno said alcohol and inexperience are among the leading dangers on the water especially during busy holiday weekends.
Boaters are also urged to follow signage and buoys around the lake. That includes “No Wake” zones near shorelines and restricted areas like the one near the Lake Houston Dam, where the water drops off 42 feet into the San Jacinto River.
Another tip from HPD: before launching, make sure someone knows your plan for the day — and what time you expect to return.
“If you’re not back by a certain time, someone needs to start making calls,” Moreno said.
4 boating safety laws to remember:
- Life Jackets (PFDs): Every person on a boat must have an approved life jacket. Kids under 13 must wear one at all times while on vessels under 26 feet.
- Boater Education: Anyone born after Sept. 1, 1993, must complete a boater education course to operate a boat over 15 hp or any personal watercraft.
- No Boating Under the Influence (BUI): It’s illegal to operate a boat with a blood alcohol level of 0.08% or higher. Violations can lead to fines, jail time, or worse.
- Have Required Safety Gear: That includes a fire extinguisher, whistle or horn, navigation lights, and a throwable floatation device for boats over 16 feet.