May 20th, 2025 – As weather warms and Memorial Day weekend approaches, officials from the Towns of Islip and Babylon gathered for a joint press conference to emphasize the importance of boating safety across Long Island’s South Shores and beyond.

The event was held at the West Islip Marina and hosted by Islip Supervisor, Angie Carpenter. Local leaders including Babylon Town Supervisor Rich Schaffer, members of the Babylon and Islip Town Boards, along with representatives from Islip and Babylon Town public safety divisions and parks departments were on hand to underscore the importance of smart boating as residents prepare for one of the busiest weekends on the water.

“Your lifejacket is your seatbelt on the water,” Supervisor Carpenter stressed, the law requires one properly fitted lifejacket per passenger aboard, with wear being mandatory for all children under 13.

Gina Lieneck, whose advocacy in the aftermath of her daughter’s tragic death from a boating accident, and which led to the passage of Brianna’s Law requiring boater safety certification for all motorized vessel operators, delivered a sobering message during the press conference and served as a poignant reminder of the law’s lifesaving purpose.

Considering Brianna’s Law going into effect this past January, both Towns also reminded residents of their FREE Boater Safety Courses. Islip will host its final session for the summer, on Saturday, June 14, a free New York State approved course offering lifetime certification in compliance with Brianna’s Law. Registration is available through the Town's Cultural Affairs Office at (631) 224-5430.

The event concluded with a strong message from officials, encouraging residents to enjoy the waterways responsibly this season and to honor the spirit of Memorial Day by prioritizing safety on the water.