Gibbons Law Firm: Top Safety Tips for a Day on the Water

Do you enjoy spending time at the Lake of the Ozarks? You're not alone. Our area is a top destination for vacationers and water lovers, alike. It's no surprise that the Lake of the Ozarks was voted the Best Recreational Lake in the United States! If you spend a lot of time on the lake, it's important to use safety precautions. Take a look below if you and your family plan to spend time out on the water the remainder of the summer.

Water Safety Tips

- Always keep an eye on children while swimming

- Ensure those who aren't strong swimmers have a flotation device handy.

- Never swim alone.

- Make sure your dock has the proper electrical grounding.

- Swim away from the dock if you feel an electrical current in the water.

- Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.

- Avoid swimming right next to a dock. A large wave could push you into or under the dock.

- Don't dive into the water unless you are familiar with the area.

- Keep an eye on the weather and stop swimming as soon as you see lightning or hear thunder.

Boating Safety Tips

- Children under the age of 13 should wear a lifejacket - it's the law.

- Never drink and drive a boat - designate a captain before going out on the water.

- If you are born after 1984, you need a boater safety course and card to operate a vessel.

- Let someone on land know your boating plans and approximate return time.

- Ensure everyone on board has a lifejacket that's easily accessible.

- Use caution around other boaters.

- Keep an eye on the weather conditions and head back to shore if a storm is coming your way.

- If you have swimmers in the water, ensure you have an orange flag to alert other boaters.

- Always turn off the engine when passengers are swimming off the boat.

Now that you know these quick safety tips for spending time on the lake, you're ready to have a fun and safe day out on the lake. Whether you're boating with the family or swimming on the shore with friends, it's important to use safety anytime you are around water. As your experienced lawyer at the Lake of the Ozarks, we want to help give you a refresher course in water safety. If you do get into a legal issue on the water, contact Gibbons Law Firm right away. From a BUI to boat collision, we can help represent your side of the case. Remember, your first consultation with our Lake of the Ozarks law firm is ALWAYS free.

Remember, your initial consultation with Gibbons Law Firm is always free.