Showing posts with label boating safety tips. Show all posts
Showing posts with label boating safety tips. Show all posts

Friday, May 22, 2020

National Safe Boating Week Safety Tips!

For National Safe Boating Week (May 16th-22nd), BomBay Boat Rental Co. is bringing you great tips on how to have a safe a fun day on the water. As the best boat rental company at the Lake of the Ozarks, we know what it takes to stay safe on the water without sacrificing fun. Keep reading to learn more and get ready to have a great holiday weekend boating at the Lake of the Ozarks!

Photo Credit: FunLake

Stay Familiar with the Weather


Missouri weather can be fairly unpredictable, so it's important to check the forecast more than once as you get ready to head out for a day of fun. If it starts to rain, it is important to turn back and switch to fun land activities. You may think that a light rain isn't too dangerous; however, that is not always the case. Rain can seriously impede a driver's ability to see other boats, obstacles, and other potentially dangerous objects. When you're driving on the road, you know where to expect other cars to be. But out on the water, there aren't any road lines and a boat can appear in your path before you know it.

Drink Responsibly


As the driver of the boat, of course, you shouldn't drink at all. Drinking and driving carries the same limits and penalties on water as it does on land. As passengers, it's important to drink responsibly while you're out on the water. If you drink too much, it could be very easy for a serious accident to occur. Tripping and falling into the water can quickly turn from a silly blooper into a devastating accident. If you are drinking, make sure to eat plenty of food and stay hydrated throughout the day.


Use Life Jackets


Legally, you must have coast guard approved life jackets on board and accessible for everyone on the boat. That means stowing life jackets deep in the boat under a lot of other supplies could be dangerous. It's also important that the life jackets are the right size and weight rating for your occupants. If someone weighs 200 pounds, a life jacket rated for 150 pounds will be useless. And for someone that weighs 100 pounds (perhaps your teenage kid), an extra large life jacket won't help keep them afloat. Before casting off for a fun day on the Lake, make sure everyone has a life jacket that fits them well and store them in a place that is easily and quickly accessible in case of an emergency.

Take Care of Yourself


It's easy to get excited about finally getting out on the water after spending time prepping the boat, but don't neglect your personal health and safety! Be sure to apply sunscreen (SPF 30 or above) and bring more to reapply, pack snacks and/or a lunch, fill water bottles to stay hydrated and avoid heat exhaustion, and bring sunglasses to protect your eyes from UV rays. A fun day on the water can suddenly feel not so great if you experience hunger pains, heat exhaustion, dehydration, or sunburn. Take care of yourself this summer!

Boating at Lake of the Ozarks 


Get ready for an incredible summer at the Lake of the Ozarks by renting a boat from BomBay Boat Rental. We have the best boats available and we can even deliver to you by water! Leave the boat maintenance to us and focus on the fun this season!



BETTER PRODUCT, BETTER PRICES, BETTER PEOPLE!

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Location: VLG OF 4 SSNS, MO 65049, USA

Wednesday, March 8, 2017

9 Safety Tips for Boating

While spending time boating at the Lake of the Ozarks makes for memorable moments with friends and family, it is important to keep safety top of mind, while operating a vessel. Here at BomBay Boat Rental Co., we want our customers to practice boating safety at the Lake of the Ozarks. To help remind you of some safety tips, before the boating season is underway, we have provided some tips below!


1) Remain Seated


Encourage all passengers to remain seated, when the boat is moving. This can help reduce the risk of someone falling overboard, as the boat is moving. Aside from falling off the boat, a falling injury can occur inside the boat, if a passenger is standing while hitting a wave.

2) Educate Passengers of Dangers


Before heading out on your boating excursion, go over the basic dangers with all passengers. Ensure everyone on board knows the dangers of the propeller and the risk of carbon monoxide inhalation. Also remind all passengers of the life jacket location and other safety precautions.

3) Wear a Life Jacket


In Missouri, it is required by law to have one Coast Guard approved life jacket for each person on the vessel. It is a good idea to wear the life jacket, when the boat is underway. Children should wear a life jacket at all times on the boat.

4) Be Alert


When traveling on our beautiful lake, pay attention to other boaters moving around. It is important to know the location of the shore and other boaters, as you travel on the water. Be extra alert when navigating around other vessels. It can be hard to predict the actions of other boaters on the water - always be prepared to react accordingly.

5) Designate a Driver


Boating While Intoxicated (BWI) is a leading cause of fatal boating accidents, according to the U.S. Coast Guard. If your group is going to participate in drinking, ensure you have a designated driver lined up, before hand.

6) Check the Weather


Missouri weather can change rapidly, ensure you check the weather forcast, before heading out on the water. A storm can roll into the area quickly, leaving you limited time to return to safety.

7) Keep an eye on Speed


Avoid speeding while operating a boat on the Lake. This can lead to a dangerous situation for everyone on the water, including your passengers. To avoid an unnecessary accident, keep your speed at a reasonable level.

8) Shut off Propeller


Coving out and participating in water sports, like tubing and wake boarding, are a fun way to spend a day on the water. Remember to shut off the propeller anytime a person is in the water, near the prop. Whether they are jumping off the boat or boarding via the ladder, it is important to keep the propeller from moving, to reduce the chance of an injury.

9) Share your Plan


Keep a friend or family member informed of your plans for boating. A general route of travel and expected time of return are important pieces of information to share with someone on shore.

Now that you know these tips for a safe boating experience, you are ready to schedule your boat rental at the Lake of the Ozarks! We want you and your group to have a fun time out on the water, but we also want to help ensure you are safe. Keep these safety tips in mind anytime you are operating a vessel. To schedule your rental for your upcoming excursion, contact BomBay Boat Rental Company at one of our locations, nearest you!

BETTER PRODUCT, BETTER PRICES, BETTER PEOPLE!

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Location: Lake Ozark, MO 65049, USA

Friday, October 14, 2016

BomBay Boat Rental Co. Encourages Boating Safety

The Lake of the Ozarks was voted USA Today's best recreational lake in the country last year, and not surprisingly! The lake offers boaters miles upon miles of deep channels and coves, perfect for tubing, swimming and more. At BomBay Boat Rental Co. we know that having fun is a priority for our customers and keeping them informed about boating safety ensures that having fun is ALL that happens. Keep in mind these tips for avoiding boating accidents and your next voyage will be accident free and all fun.

Running out of gas

If you run out of gas on the highway, you can pull over and call AAA. Not quite the case in the middle of the lake. Although, even on the water, you can call a towing agency or even a friend, but you're not likely to find somewhere to "pull over." Running out of gas in the main channel leaves you stranded and unable to avoid other boaters or the shoreline. You may wonder how this could happen. Miscalculating your distance can leave you beyond your fuel range and stranded before you're able to safely return to port. A faulty fuel gauge could also leave you floating instead of driving. Always calculate the fuel you think you'll need to go out and you'll be sure to safely return to the dock.


Breaking down

Many serious accidents occur due to mechanical failure. A faulty battery could mean the boat won't start and if that happens at night, your lights won't work. Finding yourself in a stranded boat at night leaves you practically invisible. If you're a weekend boater, check your fluid levels each weekend. Monitor engine instrumentation and keep an eye on battery levels. Keep a flashlight on your boat, you can use it to signal other boaters at night, and make sure the safety kit includes flares.


Falling overboard

Falling overboard is usually little more than a wet humiliation, but if you hit your head on the way out of the boat, it can quickly turn into a much more serious situation. This is especially dangerous to solo boaters who fall overboard.Wear a life jacket!


Speeding at night

Unfortunately, one of the chief causes of boating accidents is failing to maintain a safe speed for the conditions. At night, you can't always trust your senses to determine whether the way is clear. If another boater's lights fail, they create a navigation hazard for you and others. Travel at a safe speed at night and reduce your chance of an accident.  


Safety gear

Pay attention to the safety gear on your boat. Don't depart without the proper number and sizes of life jackets. Don't overlook the value of your anchor as well. They are your first line of defense in a breakdown or store. It keeps your boat safely in place should your engine fail. 

Weather

Poor visibility is among the risks boaters face if they ignore weather reports. Keep an eye on the weather and don't leave your dock without checking the weather for updates.


Avoid alcohol

Boating while intoxicated increases the chance of a boating accident or arrest. If you are operating a watercraft, avoid alcoholic beverages.

BomBay Boat Rental Company is your premier Lake of the Ozarks boat and jetski rental company. We love boating at the Lake of the Ozarks and hope your next voyage is fun and most of all safe. Don't forget these safety tips and be an accident free boater! If you don't own your own watercraft keep BomBay Boat Rentals in mind for your next rental!



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Location: Lake Ozark, MO 65049, USA

Tuesday, August 2, 2016

Sun Protection Tips for Boating & the Warriors Against Melanoma Poker Run

The Warriors Against Melanoma Poker Run will be taking place across the Lake of the Ozarks on Saturday, August 13, 2016. You can enjoy an exciting day on the water, help raise money for an important cause, and learn a thing or two about protecting yourself from skin cancer. BomBay Boat Rental Co. has the poker run details for you, as well as a few tips to keep your skin safe while boating.  


The Poker Run

Warriors Against Melanoma (WAM) is a non-profit organization that is run entirely by volunteers, and it was founded by a stage 3 melanoma survivor. The group's goal is to educate people about this deadly skin cancer and also raise money to help find effective treatments and eventually a cure. 

 We've got your Lake of the Ozarks boat rental waiting to be reserved for this awesome event. One of our locations, Dog Days Bar & Grill, is one of the poker stops, so you'll be all set to grab your first card! The run takes place from 11 am - 6 pm, with an after-party at 7 pm.  

Once you're on the water, you just need to visit one of the stops to sign up for the poker run. There is a $20 donation per hand. You will get 1 card and 1 fact about skin cancer at each stop. If you are able to produce those facts at the after-party, they will give you a free bonus card for your poker hand. For even more details, visit www.WarriorsAgainstMelanoma.com. This year's stops include:

  • Dog Days Bar & Grill
  • Shorty Pants Lounge & Marina
  • Bulldog's Beach House Bar & Grill
  • Larry's on the Lake
  • Nautifish Rum Bar
  • Paradise Tropical Bar
  • Topsider Bar & Grill, featuring the after-party at 7 pm 


Protect Your Skin While Boating

According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, melanoma is the most dangerous form of skin cancer. It is a cancerous growth that develops when unrepaired DNA damage to skin cells triggers mutations. This is most often caused by ultraviolet radiation from sunshine or tanning beds. 

Melanoma is not the most common skin cancer, but it does cause the most deaths. If recognized and treated early, a cure is very likely. WAM is working hard to make sure people are aware so that more deaths can be avoided. Examine your skin regularly, and have a doctor check it out yearly. You can find the warning signs to look for at www.SkinCancer.org.   


There are precautions that you can take while out on the lake to keep your skin safe.    
  • Wear sunscreen: A broad spectrum (UVA/UVB) sunscreen with SPF of 30 or higher should be worn when you will be outside for an extended time. Reapply it every couple of hours and after swimming or excessive sweating.
  • Cover your skin: A hat is excellent for keeping the sun off of your face and scalp. UPF(Ultraviolet Protection Factor) clothing is available that keeps a large amount of UV radiation from passing through it.    
  • Protect your eyes: Sunglasses are a must. Polarized lenses work the best while boating to reduce glare from the water.   
  • Stay in the shade: The sun is at it's strongest between 10 am - 4 pm. Staying in the shade helps, but be aware that the glare from the water can bounce those rays back up to you. Don't count on clouds for shade either. 80% of the sun's harmful UV rays can still come through, even on a cloudy day.
  • Don't let your skin burn: You don't have to burn to be at risk for skin cancer, but when you do, your chances increase. 

Make plans to join in the fun of the Warriors Against Melanoma Poker Run on August 13, and while you're at it, make a plan to keep your skin safe while out on the water. BomBay Boat Rental Co. is ready to get you out there in one of our boat or jet ski rentals at the Lake of the Ozarks, and we want you and your skin to be safe while you're cruising. 



BETTER PRODUCT, BETTER PRICES, BETTER PEOPLE!

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Location: Lake Ozark, MO, USA

Tuesday, May 24, 2016

Boat Safety Week Tips - Just in Time for Memorial Day Weekend

We are in the midst of Boating Safety Week, wisely placed right before all of the Memorial Weekend boat traffic hits the water. May 21-27 is a special week that is set aside to bring awareness to the importance of keeping yourself and everyone on the water with you safe in every way possible. 
  
BomBay Boat Rental Company knows that this is a very important topic. Earlier this month, we posted a blog about 6 Safety Tips for Tubing on the Lake of the Ozarks, and today we are highlighting a few boating safety tips for you. One thing that needs to be done to stay safe while you are out there is proper upkeep and maintenance on all boating equipment. 

 When you rent a boat at the Lake of the Ozarks from us, you know that this is already taken care of. We always provide the newest and best maintained fleet on the water. This guarantees that our watercraft will give you their top performance when you take them out, and also that you and your crew will be safe to travel all over the lake. The rest of these tips are things that you need to be aware of while you are enjoying an afternoon on our gorgeous lake. 

Life jackets

Every boat needs to have one life jacket for every person on board. Children under the age of 7 must keep their life jacket on unless they are in the cabin of the boat, and all PWC riders must wear their life jacket at all times. 9 out of 10 drownings could have been prevented by wearing a life jacket, plus, it's the law. 

Learn the rules of the water.

The easiest way to learn the rules for driving on the water is to take the Official Missouri Boating Safety Course online. All boaters that were born after January 1, 1984 are required to have a boater education card while operating a vessel on any Missouri lake. Brushing up on the facts is even a good idea for avid boaters that haven't been on the water in a while.   

Have a Float Plan

A Float Plan is a document that you fill out before your boat trip with important details about who is with you, where you are going, and when you plan to be back. This should be filled out and left with someone that can alert authorities if you do not make it back when you should.  

Safe speed & distance 

Never use speeds that are unsafe for the current conditions or your skill level. Also, make sure that you maintain a safe distance between yourself and others on the water. Always leave plenty of room to make turns and stops to avoid a collision.   

Watch your gas levels. 

Nothing stops the fun faster than running out of gas. Always be aware of how much gas you have left and how far it can take you. Find out where the closest gas docks are on your route. 

Stay in touch

Keep a fully charged cell phone on hand in case you get stuck out on the lake and need to call for help. It's also wise to keep the phone and other important items in a waterproof case while you are out there. 

Know what to expect from the weather

Always check the weather forecast before heading out. Sometimes bad weather shows up unexpectedly, so keep an eye on any possible changes to the weather while you are boating, and go out prepared for anything.

Don't drink & boat. 

Anyone driving a boat or PWC should never have any alcoholic beverages while operating the watercraft. Passengers are allowed to drink, but over-intoxication can result in injuries or even falling overboard. 

All of us here at BomBay Boat Rental Company want you to stay safe so that your boating experience is a good one. That way you will want to come back every summer, all season long, and enjoy our Lake of the Ozarks boat rentals. Following the tips above will go a long way in helping you to remain your safest, but never overestimate the power of common sense. If it seems dangerous, don't do it. It's always better to be safe than sorry. 

 We are happy to answer any questions that you may have about all boating topics, including safety. We hope you have an amazing Memorial Day Weekend. If you are in need of a jet ski or boat rental, make a reservation online or give us a call at 1-888-259-6096.  



BETTER PRODUCT, BETTER PRICES, BETTER PEOPLE!

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Location: Lake Ozark, MO, USA
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