1. Be Weather-Wise - Always check the weather before you head out on the water. The last thing you want to happen is to get stuck in a storm while on a boat. If you notice darkening clouds, volatile and rough changing winds, or sudden drops in temperature, play it safe by getting off the water.
2. Follow a Pre-Departure Checklist - Be prepared for any possible situation while on the water. From compliance with fire safety regulations to tips for fueling up, following a pre-departure checklist will ensure no boating safety rules or precautions haven't been overlooked.
3. Use Common Sense - One of the most important parts of boating safety is to use your common sense. This means operating at a safe speed at all times, especially in crowded areas, being alert at all times, and steering clear of large vessels and watercraft that can be restricted by their ability to stop or turn around. Buoys and other navigational aids have been placed there for a reason, so be respectful of them.
4. Designate an Assistant Skipper - Make sure that more than one person on board is familiar with all aspects of handling the boat. In case of the primary navigator being injured or incapacitated in any way, having someone else that can follow the proper boating procedures to get everyone safely back to shore is important.
6. Make Proper Use of Life Jackets - Did you know that the majority of drowning victims as a result of boating accidents were found not to be wearing a life jacket? Make sure that your family and friends aren't part of this statistic by assigning and fitting each member on board with a life jacket prior to departure. For more information on life jackets, click here.
7. Avoid Alcohol - Practice boating safety at all times by saving the alcohol for later. The probability of being involved in a boating accident doubles when alcohol is involved, and studies have also shown that the affect of alcohol is exacerbated by external effects such as sun and wind.
8. Learn to Swim - If you are going to be in and around the water, it is important to know how to swim. You can't always rely on someone else being there to help you. Local organizations such as the American Red Cross and others offer swim training for all ages and abilities, so check to see what classes are offered in your area.
9. Take a Boating Course - Whether you are a beginner or expert boater, you need to be familiar with boating safety rules of operation. Boater education requirements vary by state with some requiring validated completion of at least one boating safety course. Regardless of these requirements, it's always important to be educated, aware and prepared for everyday circumstances that might arise. You can learn boating safety rules by taking a local course or participating in online tutorials. For more information on boating courses, click here.
10. Consider a Free Vessel Safety Check - The US Coast Guard offers complimentary boat examinations to verify the presence and condition of certain Safety Equipment required by State and Federal regulations. They also offer virtual online safety checks as well. To find a vessel Safety check examiner near you, click here.
Pack up your life jackets and water toys because its time to hit the water at the Lake of the Ozarks! While you're here, be sure to check out the beautiful community at Mission Bay. We offer living at its finest with gorgeous lakefront and Lake view Homes at Lake of the Ozarks! With the new improved Highway 5, its just minutes from grocery stores, restaurants, and more!
Connect with us for the latest community news!
Like us on Facebook
Follow us on Twitter
Connect with us on LinkedIn
CONTACT US
Phone: (573) 873-3465
237 Mission Bay Blvd.
Camdenton, MO 65020
No comments:
Post a Comment