Free water safety event, Lock Fest, set at Allegheny River Lock 4 in Natrona
People are invited to stop by Allegheny River Lock 4 in the Natrona section of Harrison on Saturday for a boatload of fun.
Lock Fest, the annual water safety event hosted by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District, will be presented free to the public from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
The event will offer tips to help people safely enjoy activities on the water.
There will be something for all ages, including lessons on navigation and aquatic life.
Children can meet Bobber, the water safety dog, and enjoy Popsicles handed out by staff.
Everyone will have the chance to lock through the facilities and watch live locking demonstrations.
“For some, locking through the region’s 23 navigation facilities can be intimidating,” Ranger MiKayla Newman said.
Tow operators will be on hand for questions, and there will be exhibits on safe river navigation.
“Operating a boat on the rivers without proper knowledge and education can increase the risk of injury and damage,” Newman said. “Lock Fest provides information that helps the community enjoy the rivers safely and with the confidence that comes with being informed.”
It aligns with the Corps of Engineers’ water-safety message of “Know (the waterways), Take (a water safety course) and Wear (your life jacket).”
To attend the event, a valid ID is required and children must be accompanied by an adult.
Tours will be offered on a first-come, first-served basis in groups of 15. Attendees should wear closed-toed shoes. Bags and purses, along with weapons of any kind, should be left at home.
Lock 4 is at 1 River Road.
Tawnya Panizzi is a TribLive reporter. She joined the Trib in 1997. She can be reached at tpanizzi@triblive.com.
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