VIDEO: Trenton Patch Hits the Water With the Wayne County Sheriff's Marine Unit

Trenton Patch hit the water with the Wayne County Sheriff's Marine Unit Thursday for a first hand look at the importance of boater safety.

With the weather heating up, unseasonably, there are a number of local boaters launching vessels out of the .

Over 100 boaters could be spotted less than a mile from the marina.

Wayne County Sheriff Benny Napoleon was on hand to offer tips and information to help keep boaters safe on the Detroit River.

Napoleon stressed the importance of having life jackets readily accessible when out on the water and explained the dangers of mixing boating with alcohol.

For information on getting a boater's license go to the Wayne County Sheriff's website.

For a full list of Michigan boating laws and responsibilities check out the online version of the Michigan Boater's Guide.

Trenton officials including Joann Perna, director of , participated in the event.

Recently, the . Though the marina at Elizabeth Park is no longer a Wayne County operation, the marine unit will continue to provide the same service to citizens as in years past according to Perna.

"We're expecting a seamless transition," Perna said. "The sheriff's department has always been stationed at the marina and they will continue to service the marina and the waterways."

The marina is officially scheduled to open April 1, but Perna said it could open a day early due to recent "beautiful weather."

Perna added the marina might have staff in place as early as this weekend, about one week before the official opening.

Perna said those hired to work at the marina have experience with marina operations and is confident the city will run the marina effectively.

"We're looking forward to it," Perna said.

The cost to launch from the marina is $5 per day. The cost to dock in the marina varies on the size of the vessel. Call the Trenton Department of Parks and Recreation for more information 734-675-7300.