Officials warn boaters as Fourth of July approaches

Officials are reminding boaters to keep safety a top priority this upcoming Fourth of July holiday.

According to state officials, nearly a million boats are registered in Florida. On holidays like the Fourth of July, boat traffic spikes, especially with visitors.

Officials want to remind all boaters to always travel at a safe speed, obey nautical laws, and have the proper safety equipment on board. Operating a boat under the influence of drugs or alcohol is also illegal.