PLAY IT SAFE ON THE WATER

Whether it’s boating, fishing, skiing, or enjoying any water sport, it’s hard to beat the warm weather and the fun of an outing on the water, and part of enjoying the water means remembering water safety rules. Rules designed to make sure your good times are nothing but the best.

SKIING SAFETY TIPS

·         Wear a PFD designed for water skiing

·         Fly a ski flag when pulling a skier

·         Always have an observer in the boat to alert the driver when you go down

·          Don’t spray or “buzz” other skiers, swimmers or boats

·         Never ski after dark

TIPS FOR SAFE BOATING

·         Always wear a PFD, even if you are a good swimmer

·         Give boats and swimmers plenty of leeway and be alert for skiers down in the water

·         Always obey buoys, channel markers and “No Wake” Zones

GENERAL WATER SAFETY

·         Don’t overdo your water sports activities. The combination of noise, wind, motion, sun, and glare can lead to serious fatigue and double your reaction time.

HYPOTHERMIA SURVIVAL:

To minimize body heat loss in cold water:

·         Put on a life jacket

·         Devote your efforts to getting out of the water by boarding a boat, raft, or other floating device or by riding or climbing on top of a capsized boat

·         Swim only to reach a nearby boat, person, or floating object

·          If you can’t get out of the water, huddle with other people or hold your knees to your chest, wrap your arms around your legs, and clasp your  hands together

·         Remain as still as possible

·         Do not remove your clothing

·         Tighten collars, cuffs, shoes, and hoods

SAFETY EQUIPMENT                                                   

 Use this checklist for your safety:

·         Vessel numbering

·         Registration documents

·         Navigation lights

·         Sound-producing device

·         Personal Flotation Devices for all passengers

·          Ski Flag

·          Fire Extinguisher

·         Anchor with line

·         Paddle or oar

·         Manual pump or bailer

·         Galley/heating systems

·         Electrical system

WATER SAFETY AND ALCOHOL

Many water sports enthusiasts enjoy relaxing with a cold beer during or after a fun day in the sun. Beer can add enjoyment to life but only when it’s consumed as intended: responsibly and by adults. If you choose to drink alcoholic beverages, follow these tips to help you have a fun, safe time:

·         Enjoy food with your alcoholic beverages; don’t drink on an empty stomach

·         Remember that sun, wind, vibration, and water motion can increase the effects of alcohol

 

SO PLAY IT SAFE

AND

HAVE A GREAT TIME!