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Remember These Boating Safety Tips this Summer in Indian Lake
Indian Lake is a beautiful place for boating and family fun. However, it's a good idea to remember that no matter how much boating experience you have, it never hurts to review a few basics before launching.
Safety Tips to Keep Your Family Safe
Be Weather-Wise
Because Indian Lake is shallow with large open zone areas, it can get rough quickly with changes in weather conditions. If you notice darkening clouds, volatile and rough changing winds, or sudden drops in temperature, play it safe by getting off the water.
Follow a Pre-Departure Checklist
Being prepared for any possibility on the water is a big part of boating safety. By following a pre-departure checklist you can make sure no boating safety rules or precautions have been overlooked or forgotten. Here is a great one to print and use:CHECKLIST
Learn to Swim
A strong swimmer is a survivor. Local organizations usually offer training for all ages and abilities. Check to see what classes are offered in your area if you aren't comfortable in the water.
Use Common Sense
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Extended sun and wind exposure causes fatigue
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Slower boats have the right away
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Operate at safe speeds—particularly in crowded areas. Observe Indian Lake's 10 mph speed limit for night boating.
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Stay alert at all times
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Steer clear of large vessels or watercraft which might be restrictive in stopping or turning.
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Be conscience of buoys and other navigational aids
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Don't Drink and Sail. The probability of being involved in a boating accident doubles when alcohol is involved. Studies have shown that the effects of alcohol are exacerbated by sun and wind.
Designate an Assistant Skipper
Don't be the only one aboard who knows all aspects of handling and operating the vessel, and general boating safety. Should the Captain become injured or incapacitated in any way, it's important someone else can get everyone else back to shore.
Develop a Float Plan
Always be sure to let someone else—who will be on shore—know your float plan. This should include your destination, how long you anticipate being gone, names and phone numbers of all passengers, and boat details including communication equipment on board. Should you run into trouble, this will assist authorities in searching for you. Here is a map of Indian Lake to help you plan:MAP
Make Proper Use of Lifejackets
Don't become part of a tragic drowning statistic. Be sure all passengers on board are outfitted in properly fitted lifejackets. Children under ten years of age on a boat less than eighteen feet in length MUST wear a personal flotation device.
Take a Boating Course and Consider a Free Vessel Safety Check
U.S.C.G. Auxiliary Offering Boating Safety Classes N.A.S.B.A. approved. Successful completion satisfies the State of Ohio educational requirements for boaters operating a powerboat faster than 10 hp. and born on or after Jan. 1, 1982.
The US Coast Guard offers complimentary boat examinations to verify the presence and condition of certain safety equipment required by state and federal regulations—take advantage of it!
DID YOU KNOW?
The cause of most deaths amongst boaters is capsizing, falling overboard, and drowning.
Be safe. Be smart. Stay Alive.
FYI:
Per the Indian Lakewebsite: There is no alcohol permitted on the lake. Patrol boats navigate the lake to help boaters, monitor speed, and look for safety violations. The Indian Lake Auxiliary Coast Guard is also available on weekends to assist boaters.