waters to seek relief from the heat.

But keep in mind that Bermuda is one of the best spots in the world for watching turtles.

Whether you're swimming, boating or picnicking by or on the water this holiday, remember that human carelessness is a major threat to turtles and other marine creatures.

Here are a few tips to keep in mind while enjoying the waters this holiday: While boating on the waters, do not speed -- especially in those areas where green turtles are likely to be living. The North Shore, the coast between Cambridge Beaches to Pompano Beach Club, Ferry Reach and the area around Nonsuch Island are plentiful with seagrass, thus likely homes and feeding grounds for turtles; Do not throw trash over board and if you and debris floating in the water, pick it up; Report any turtles, egg shells or turtle tracks on the beach to the Bermuda Aquarium and Zoo; If you come across a turtle do not disturb or harass them by making noise or shining lights at them; and If you find a sick or injured turtle notify the Bermuda Aquarium and Zoo rehabilitation centre.

Each year, thousands of sea turtles die from eating non-biodegradable debris like balloons, plastic bags and styrofoam. Hungry turtles, especially those species that feed on jelly fish, can mistake the plastics for food.

Helium-filled balloons that are released into the air in Bermuda, eventually burst and fall back to the earth's surface. Since the Island is so small, inevitably those balloons end up in the water and may become a fatal meal for marine creatures like sea turtles.

It is for this reason that Ms Gray urged the public not to use helium balloons for decorations.

And she also reminded the public not to toss trash into the sea.

"Member's of the public can protect our precious marine resources by removing trash from the sea whenever it is encountered.'' Ms Gray had some further words of advise for those who will be near or in the water this summer.

"Fishing line left along the shoreline poses a threat to many species including seabirds and turtles,'' she pointed out. "Please take your discarded fishing line home with you and dispose of it appropriately.

"As much as possible try to recover any line broken off or tangled on the rocks when you encounter it. You could be saving a life.'' She added: "If you're on the water boating, chances are you are there for recreational purposes so slow down and enjoy the watery environment around you and save our turtles at the same time.''