Huntington imposes boating safeguards during fireworks

The Town of Huntington is going to impose a 5-mph boating speed limit for Asharoken's fireworks show, as officials anticipate more boaters to attend the village's event this year.

"We are all mindful of the tragedy in Oyster Bay last July 4, which is why the town is taking these measures to help people enjoy the Asharoken display safely," said Councilman Mark Cuthbertson in a statement. He was referring to the accident last year, in which three children died after a boat capsized while returning to Huntington.

More boaters are expected because of the cancellation of the Oyster Bay fireworks show this year, town officials said in a statement.

The town will implement the 5-mph speed limit from 8:30 to 10 p.m. in all of Northport Bay and Huntington Bay south from East Beach to West Beach. It will also apply to Long Island Sound from the easternmost section of the Northport Power Plant to the westernmost end of the causeway on Asharoken Avenue.

The town is working with the Suffolk County Police Department, the U.S. Coast Guard, the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, the Village of Northport harbormaster and police department, the Asharoken police department and the Huntington, Northport and Centerport fire departments to coordinate patrols, establish a security zone around the barge shooting the fireworks and provide the emergency response team.

As in the past, law enforcement boats will be strategically located throughout the area to help ensure an orderly dispersal after the event.

"We want boaters to enjoy the show, but we also want to do what we can to help boaters arrive, enjoy the show and leave safely," Supervisor Frank Petrone said in the statement.