BETHEL – On behalf of the Lake Association of White Lake, one of its board members, Steve Marton, presented two water safety items at the Bethel Town Board meeting on July 23. The equipment is for the use of the navigation officers who patrol White Lake and will “significantly enhance officer preparedness and public safety” since, according to Marton, “Unfortunately, every now and then, there’s a tragic accident.”

Chief Constable Marc Anthony was present to receive the donation which consisted of a 0.5-liter portable emergency diving tank that “provides up to ten minutes of breathable air to an officer who may… enter the water unexpectedly to search for a drowning victim” as well as two light, comfortable self-inflating flotation devices (PFDs) which automatically inflate upon hitting the water. In addition to his other duties, Anthony is a navigation officer, as well as Ryan LaMantia, Jacob Puzio, and Nicholas Field.

Generously procured by the Lake Association, the donation aligns with its mission:

“To become an organized voice to...represent our community through coordination with local, state, and federal officials on matters related to the health and welfare of White Lake.”  

The organization raises funds that support the monitoring of water quality and the preservation and improvement of the White Lake ecosystem. It believes that “supporting the safety of those who patrol the lake is an essential part” of their mission. The tools are a “meaningful step in helping to make the lake safer - for the officers who serve, and for everyone who enjoys what the lake has to offer”.  

Marton concluded his presentation by stating, “We are honored to stand beside our local officials and public safety officers in the shared stewardship of White Lake.