Summer Water Safety

As summer temperatures rise, the waters become more populated. For those who like to go boating out on the blue, here are some safety tips from Wink News.

"Below are important steps boaters should recognize and adhere to before embarking on their voyage.

• Check the weather.
• Prepare and follow your pre-departure checklist.
• Develop a float plan and share your plan with someone remaining on land.
• Make sure your boat and equipment is in working order before departure.
• Be equipped with proper life jackets for all persons.
• Never drink alcohol before or while operating a boat.
• Operate at a safe speed and maintain a careful lookout.
• Be equipped with a working marine radio or fully charged cell phone.
• Remember to bring an emergency signaling devise and sound producing devises.
• Keep everyone hydrated and use sun block throughout the day.

Fire & EMS also recommends boaters follow the boat safety checklist.

• Life jackets and throwable devices
• Distress signals and sound producing devices
• First aid kit
• Bottled water
• Sun block
• Flares and day signals
• Check all boat lights, and flashlights
• Fuel and oil
• Bilges and plugs
• Battery
• Docking and anchoring equipment
• Emergency locator beacons
• Tools and spares
• Fire extinguishers"

The above recommendations were retrieved from Wink News.