For Immediate Release

Tuesday, June 7, 2016

Contact: John Guilfoil
Phone: 617-993-0003
Email: [email protected]

Natick Police Remind Residents about Safe Swimming Practices for the Summer

NATICK — With summer just a couple weeks away, Chief James G. Hicks and the Natick Police Department ask the community to be vigilant while by the water.

“This is an extremely exciting time for residents as the weather warms up and school gets out for the year,” Chief Hicks said.  “We ask that the community follow several safety tips while swimming and boating.”

Memorial Beach on West Street, which is a part of Dug Pond, is a popular spot for swimming, fishing, and boating. Beach passes are required for all residents and visitors. The 2016 hours are as follows:

June 11 – 12: 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
June 13 – 22: Weekdays – 3-7 p.m., Weekends – 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
June 23 – August 14: Weekdays – 10:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m., Weekends -11 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Cochituate State Park is also open to the public and is a great area for swimming and boating at Middle, North and South lakes. The reservation, run by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, is located at 43 Commonwealth Road.

While at DCR-run state reservations, remember:

• Follow the direction of the park staff at all times.
• Practice sun safety: always wear sunscreen, seek shaded areas and protect your skin from direct sun exposure.
• Drinking or possessing alcohol is prohibited.
• Open fires and grilling are not allowed on the premises.

DCR also asks that while boating, residents remember that:

• Swimming from boats is prohibited.
• Boating is allowed during daylight hours or as posted on the boat ramp.
• Sound your horn before entering tunnels.
• Water skiing is permitted in South Lake only.
• Life jackets are strongly recommended when boating.

For those with their own pools, Natick Police suggest that the community follow safety tips outlined by the American Red Cross:

• Per Massachusetts law, have at least a 4-foot-high barrier that encloses the pool and an access gate that self-closes, locks, and opens outward from the swimming area (even if you don’t have children).
• Fasten a safety cover over the pool when it is not in use, and remove ladders to further prevent access into the pool. For added safety, install a pool alarm that will sound if anyone enters the water.
• Never leave children unattended while they are near or in a pool, and make sure they have an adult to accompany them into the water. Young or inexperienced swimmers should always wear a life jacket or inflatable arm floats.
• Make sure children stay away from pool drains, pipes, or any other openings to avoid getting trapped or hurt. If a child is missing, always check the pool first.
• Set safety instructions and share them with family, friends, neighbors, or anyone else who is near or uses the pool. Advise children to stay away from pool deep ends, and to always walk, never run near the pool.
• Take a CPR course for adults and children to be prepared if an emergency situation occurs. Update skills regularly.

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