ANNAPOLIS, Md. — As the Fourth of July holiday weekend approaches, the Anne Arundel County Fire Department is gearing up to maintain a vigilant presence on the water. Fire boats are being positioned to respond to a variety of emergencies, which could include boating incidents, medical emergencies, and even house fires along the bay.
I had the opportunity to board one of the department’s latest additions, the Klasy-Lady, to gain insight into what challenges crews usually face during holiday weekends on the water.
“Currently, we are on fire boat 19, the Klasy-Lady, a 50-foot steel vessel that was acquired in 2024. This fire and rescue boat is operated by the personnel from our Station 19 in Cape Saint Claire,” explained Lieutenant Matthew Marsiglia from the Office of Professional Standards.
Anne Arundel County Fire Department Offers Fourth of July Water Safety Tips
Anne Arundel Co. fire dept. preps for July 4th on the water
This weekend, the Klasy-Lady is just one of several fire boats that will be on standby. While crews will be ready to assist, Marsiglia emphasizes that boaters must take precautions prior to setting sail.
“We advise everyone to ensure they are prepared because conditions on the water can change rapidly. Check the weather; you may think it’s sunny and calm, but storms can roll in unexpectedly. It’s essential to review your radar and plan your day accordingly,” Marsiglia advised.
The department’s focus on safety is not limited to boaters; it extends to everyone enjoying the water.
“Even if you are an accomplished swimmer, emergencies can occur. It’s important to stay alert. Being confident in the water doesn’t eliminate the need for preparedness,” Marsiglia stated.
As crowds flock to the water for Fourth of July fireworks displays, Marsiglia noted that the bay can provide excellent viewing opportunities, but maintaining situational awareness is paramount.
Additionally, he recommended that anyone planning to cruise the waters at night for the fireworks should ensure their boat is equipped with necessary safety gear, including functioning lights, a life raft, and operational radar, while being considerate of fellow boaters nearby.
For additional safe boating tips, click here.
This story was initially reported on-air by a journalist and has been adapted for this platform with assistance from AI. Our editorial team ensures the accuracy and fairness of all reporting across all platforms.
