Fairfield Police Department's Marine Unit is offering up boating safety tips ahead of the July Fourth holiday weekend.

Police say boaters should have horns or a whistle, fire extinguisher, flares, and a throwable device on board.

Officials say there should be enough lifejackets on board for all passengers.

Children under 12 years old are required by state law to wear a lifejacket at all times.

Police say no one should operate a boat while drinking alcohol.

Officials say boaters should also pay attention to weather forecasts and sign up to receive alerts to their cellphones.