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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