Safety zone established for fireworks display on Lake Erie near Put-In-Bay

The Coast Guard is creating a temporary safety zone around a fireworks barge on Lake Erie. The restricted area covers all navigable waters within a 375-yard radius of the launch site near Put-in-Bay, Ohio. This rule was published as a final rule without prior public comment because the event date is approaching and there was not enough time to go through the standard notice-and-comment process.

Why it matters: This action ensures public safety by keeping boats and swimmers away from falling debris and potential explosions during a fireworks display. While the impact is geographically limited to a specific stretch of Lake Erie for less than three hours, it removes any ambiguity about where boaters can or cannot be on that date. It also fulfills the Coast Guard’s legal duty to protect marine environments and personnel during hazardous operations.

Who it affects

• Boaters and recreational vessels operating in the specified area of Lake Erie near Put-in-Bay on August 2, 2026.

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This rule was issued by the U.S. Coast Guard under the Department of Homeland Security; readers should verify the exact coordinates and potential schedule changes on the Federal Register or local marine advisories before relying on this information.

Agency: Homeland Security Department, Coast Guard
Source: Federal Register — read the official document