HUNTINGTON, NY – June 30, 2026
As Huntington prepares to celebrate our nation’s 250th anniversary this Fourth of July, the town is bracing for a holiday weekend marked by both excitement and extreme weather. With a heat wave watch in effect from July 1st through the 4th – predicting “feels like” temperatures of 100 degrees and above – local officials are urging residents to prioritize safety while enjoying our waterways.
A Unified Safety Effort at Halesite Marina
Gathering at Halesite Marina, Town Supervisor Ed Smyth led a press conference to outline critical measures for the holiday. With over a thousand boats expected to crowd our harbors, the town is implementing a temporary five-mile-per-hour speed zone to ensure safe navigation.
Smyth also reminded boaters that under New York State’s Brianna’s Law, all operators of motorized watercraft are required to complete a state-approved safe boating safety course.
“We need to warn the entire boating community of the dangers that wakes from speeding boats create,” Smyth explained.
This initiative, part of the town’s Victoria Gaines Boating Safety Program, aims to prevent tragedies like the one that occurred in 2012, ensuring that this milestone anniversary remains a time for celebration.
Navigating the “Dead Low Tide”
Garret Chelius, the Town of Huntington’s Director of Maritime Services, emphasized that environmental conditions will be particularly challenging this year. The timing of the tides means that immediately following the fireworks, the area will experience a dead low tide.
“Be extra cautious getting back into the harbors because it’s going to be dark, there’s going to be a lot of boats out there, and the water is going to be low,” Chelius warned.
He also reminded boaters to ensure life jackets are accessible and properly fitted, noting that adult-sized gear is ineffective for children. The Town of Huntington also provides loaner life jackets available to borrow at their office at Halesite Marina. Additionally, the town has installed red emergency throw rings at every town waterfront facility – including all ramps, docks, and marinas. These are intended for immediate use if someone falls into the water while boarding or disembarking. Chelius also issued a warning for kayakers, noting that they must be extra vigilant and alert. While the town discourages kayaking after dark, those who do stay out for the fireworks are responsible for having lights, just like any other vessel on the water.
“If you’re unfamiliar where life jackets are on a vessel, don’t be afraid to ask the skipper because if things go bad quickly; you don’t have time to look for them.” – Garret Chelius
The Dangers of Boating While Intoxicated
The Suffolk County Police Department’s Marine Bureau is increasing patrols to combat Boating While Intoxicated (BWI). Officer John Dreyer issued a stern reminder that the captain is responsible for the safety of everybody on your vessel.
“We’ve handled situations where we’ve seen the consequences of boating while intoxicated, and we don’t want to go through that again,” Dreyer said. With many boats lacking radar, navigating the dark, crowded waters after the fireworks requires absolute sobriety and focus.
Protecting Our Furry Friends
Town Clerk Andrew Raia, an avid boater, offered essential advice for those bringing pets on the water. With the extreme heat wave approaching, owners must be hyper-vigilant.
“Remember your furry pets are part of the family and pay extra special attention to them,” Raia advised. He stressed that owners must keep pets hydrated, but warned against a common mistake: never use ice in or on an overheated dog, as it can cause shock. Instead, use shade and wet towels to cool them down. Furthermore, Raia cautioned that saltwater ingestion can be fatal for dogs, and symptoms of heatstroke can manifest hours after leaving the water.
Staying Healthy in the Heat
County Legislator Rebecca Sanin highlighted the public health risks posed by the upcoming heat wave. She noted that alcohol consumption in such extreme temperatures accelerates dehydration, significantly increasing the risk of heat exhaustion and heatstroke.
“We all want to make sure that next week, we’re talking about beautiful memories that you’ve made and not tragedies in our town,” Sanin said.
Councilwoman Brooke Lupinacci echoed these sentiments, urging all residents to heed the warnings and follow the rules. As we mark this historic 250th anniversary, the message from Huntington’s leadership is clear: stay cool, stay sober, and stay safe.
New York State’s “Know Before You Go”
Town of Huntington’s “Top 10 Boating Safety Tips”
Photography by Diane Schaber. Videography by June Margolin.
