New Boating Speed Limit In Place For Huntington, L.I.

HUNTINGTON, N.Y. (CBSNewYork) -- A new speed limit has been instituted for the Fourth of July fireworks show in the waters off the town of Huntington on Long Island.

As WCBS 880's Sophia Hall reported, after the horrific tragedy in which three young children were killed when their boat capsized on the Fourth of July in the waters off Long Island, the Town of Huntington has announced a speed limit of 5 mph for boaters.

Police in Huntington will also step up patrols for the Asharoken Fireworks Show.

Boaters and others on the waterfront said the move was a step in the right direction.

"It's a good idea for safety," one man said. "You have a lot of boats in the area -- in a congested area – and when the fireworks are over, then everyone's racing to get out of the area."

Added boater Bob Williams, "It's dark, some people have been drinking, and it causes tremendous confusion on the waters – including giant waves – so the rule of 5 miles an hour is an excellent rule."

On July 4 of last year, Victoria Gaines, 8; Harlie Treanor, 11; and David Aureliano, 12, were trapped the cabin of a 34-foot yacht called the Kandi Won when it flipped and sank on July 4 following a fireworks ceremony in the waters off Oyster Bay on Long Island. All three were killed.

Since the accident, Suffolk County has instituted a law requiring boat operators to take a safety course and have the certificate displayed on board the vessel.

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