Sizzling weather and a long holiday weekend likely will mean crowded lakes, rivers and beaches as people look for ways to cool off.

The forecast calls for temperatures in the high 70s to upper 80s through Sunday.

Law enforcement officials want people to stay safe in the rivers and lakes.

“With the heat the way it is and everybody having a three-day weekend, it’s going to be busy,” said Pierce County sheriff’s Sgt. Jake Greger, who supervises the department’s Marine Services Unit.

Law enforcement agencies offer these tips when you’re out playing in the water:

 • Many local rivers are swift and clogged with debris and downed trees from last winter’s storms. “That makes those impassable to boaters, tubers and swimmers,” the King County Sheriff’s Office reported.

 • Do not disregard posted closure signs.

 • Always swim in the designated areas.

 • Wear a life jacket while boating. Children younger than 12 must have a life jacket on at all times on boats less than 19 feet long.

 • Have life jackets on board for all passengers.

 • Boats 16 feet or longer must have on board a Type 4 flotation device that can be thrown overboard. Boaters also need to have a fire extinguisher and registration on their vessels.

 • Don’t drink and boat.

Stacey Mulick, The News Tribune