Make sure all equipment and lights are working before leaving shore.
Safety equipment on board should include: Radio, life jackets, compass, chart, fire extinguishers, anchor, line, paddle, bailers, lights, flares, sound signaling device (like a whistle or horn), first aid kit, basic tools and spare parts.
Wear a life jacket at all times.
Don’t drink and drive.
Do not overload the boat beyond its capacity.
Stay on the lakeside of “Danger Shoreward”
buoys.
Stay at least 600’ from shoreline.
Obey 5 mph zone in buoy fields and within 600’ of shore.
Watch for underwater debris in spring that is washed into the lake by streams.
Know the weather conditions.
Plan afternoon trips on the West Shore to avoid dangerous winds.
In high winds, head to a sheltered harbor and wait it out.
Take a boat safety class.
Get a free vessel safety check.
