Golden Pond, KY – Forest Service Law Enforcement Officers at Land Between The Lakes (LBL) National Recreation Area suggest making safety precautions as much of a summer tradition as fireworks on the Fourth of July.
“Because we are coming into the busiest part of the summer, it’s a good idea to plan ahead and take extra precautions so you can safely enjoy the outdoors,” said Forest Service Law Enforcement Police Captain Duane Cameron. Captain Cameron recommends keeping the following precautions in mind:
Boating
- Be courteous at boat ramps and make sure proper safety equipment is on board.
- Before starting your boat, be sure the engine is well ventilated to avoid dangerous build-up of gas fumes.
- Check the emergency brake to reduce the possibility of vehicles entering the water.
- Monitor the boat’s weight capacity and let a responsible person on shore know where you plan to go.
- Avoid drinking alcoholic beverages if you plan to operate a boat.
Hiking, Biking, & Driving
- While operating a motor vehicle be aware of your speed. Speeding creates an unsafe environment for all visitors.
- Be courteous–share the road with those on bicycles and motorcycles.
- Be careful driving–heavy rains may wash out sections of roadways and creek crossings.
- While driving the LBL roadways, watch out for deer. Does have fawns that will follow slightly behind as they cross and often feed near the roadways.
- When hiking any of the trails, be certain of your location and plan a route.
- It is always a good idea to carry a map, compass, and/or GPS unit.
- On an extended hike, inform a responsible person of your route plans.
- Use an effective tick, chigger, and mosquito repellant.
Camping
- Be cautious with campfires. Be certain to remove debris around the fire ring.
- Be aware of high fire danger associated with hot, dry weather.
- If you see or smell smoke, please report it immediately at the number listed below.
- Look upwards before setting up a tent or RV. There may be a snag or limb ready to fall with a slight wind.
- Be courteous to other campers. Quiet hours are 11:00pm-6:00am.
While fireworks are not allowed anywhere in LBL, visitors can enjoy a free, spectacular fireworks display at any of our neighboring State Resort Parks. Permits for backcountry camping, hunting, and off-highway vehicle usage may be obtained at the Golden Pond Visitor Center, year-round, or the North and South Welcome Stations, March-November. These facilities operate seven days per week, 9:00am-5:00pm. After business hours, Backcountry Camping Permits may be purchased at Hillman Ferry, Wranglers, Piney, Energy Lake, and Rushing Creek Campgrounds. On summer weekends and holidays, Turkey Bay OHV Permits are available on-site, 8:00am-5:00pm. For information regarding Backcountry Camping or OHV Permits, please visit our website at www.lbl.org or call 270-924-2000.
“Our staff is here to help ensure the safety of our visitors in LBL and to safeguard your National Recreation Area. We hope that people will make safety a top priority, especially during the Fourth of July holiday, when LBL is enjoyed by so many people,” said Captain Cameron.
Police services at LBL are provided by Forest Service Law Enforcement Officers located at Golden Pond, KY. In case of emergency dial 911 or 877-861-2457 for 24-hour dispatch.
About Land Between The Lakes
Land Between The Lakes is managed by the Forest Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture, in partnership with “Friends of LBL,” to provide public lands outdoor recreation and environmental education. We encourage visitors to review our website at www.lbl.org each season, and throughout the season, for our Calendar of Events, updates on programs and policies, safety information, maps, and temporary trail and road closures. Additional LBL and “Friends of LBL” information is also available on our website or by calling 1-800-LBL-7077 or 270-924-2000.
