ITHACA, N.Y. (WHCU) – Area boaters are reminded to practice proper safety measures while traversing area lakes and waterways.

The Seneca County Sheriff’s Office recently responded to reports of a boat taking on water on Seneca Lake in the Town of Ovid. The boater was forced to jump off and swim ashore.

The man was treated by ambulance but did not sustain any injuries. The Sheriff’s Office says to always have a personal flotation device on board, and use extreme caution when boating in high winds and rough waters.

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Boat sinking Seneca Lake Town of Ovid

The Seneca County Sheriff’s Office reports, on Saturday March 21, 2020 at approximately 0750 hours, Sheriff’s Deputies responded to Seneca Lake in the area of Combs Road in the Town of Ovid for a boat taking on water. Upon investigation, the lone boater, Taylor J. Hersh age 26, of 4001 Cross Road Rock Stream was able to swim to shore after his boat quit, took on water and capsized in rough waters. Hersh was treated at the scene by South Seneca Ambulance and was released with no injuries.

Deputies were assisted at the scene by Romulus Fire. Deputies also notified officers from the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation.

Deputies report the boat was recovered this week from the shallow water .

Boaters are reminded to always have a PFD and use extreme caution when on the lakes in high winds and rough waters.