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Memorial Day: The Ultimate Guide To Enjoying The Lake

The big weekend has arrived! Memorial Day weekend is here to kick off the summer. While people makes plans for the weekend, many people will find themselves on the lake to enjoy the water for the first time this year. The lakes will be very busy. With a big increase in traffic this weekend, there will be a lot of things to watch out for too. Make sure you have a fun and safe Memorial Day experience by following our tips for safety on the lake.

Pro Tips For A Safe Memorial Day Weekend on the Lake

1. Always Bring A Life Jacket

Drowning is the #1 cause of death in boating accidents. Over 86% of people that drown weren’t wearing a life jacket. Make sure to have appropriate sized life jackets available for everyone on board. Children 12 and under are required to wear a life jacket at all times while on a boat.

2. Don’t Drink and Drive

Alcohol is one of the leading factors that contribute to a fatal boating accident. This is a very busy weekend for lake traffic, so there is sure to be inexperienced boaters on the water. If you’re driving, stay sober.  Driving while intoxicated at night time is even more dangerous as well due to low visibility. If you plan on having a few drinks with people on board, make sure someone is the designated “Sober Skipper”.

3. Know Your Surroundings.

If you’re an inexperienced boater going on a lake for the first time, make sure you know the area well before you go out boating. Know what the speed limits are, and where the No-Wake zones are. Watch the weather to make sure no storms are expected to come into the area before hand. If you’re on the water and a storm rolls in, make sure to get to safety quickly. Keep an eye on other boats at all times. You never know what someone else is doing, and they could be coming at you fast. Being aware of the environment and intent of other people on the lake is one of the keys to having a safe boating experience during a busy Memorial Day weekend.

4. Prepare Your Crew

Be sure to educate your friends and family about some of the dangers that are present when boating. Make sure they know where the first aid kit is, where the life jackets are, and the expectations of how they should behave while on the boat. Be sure to tell your guests not to be standing while the boat is moving.

5. Keep Your Equipment Safe

While most of the traffic on the lake this weekend will be from visitors, residents of the lake want to make sure their equipment is kept safe. Make sure your boat lift is in working condition to keep your boat out of water and safe. For new boaters, be sure to learn about the launching and docking process and how to tie your boat to a cleat for safety if needed. Having an accident that will cost thousands of dollars to fix is not something anyone wants to encounter this weekend.

This weekend is the first time to get out and enjoy the lake for a lot of people since the Coronavirus pandemic started. Over the past year, the interest in boating and other waterfront activities has soared to an all time high. There will be heavy traffic on the lake this weekend, so be sure to keep aware of your surroundings at all times and stay safe. If you or anyone you know is looking for service on their dock, boat lift, or sea wall feel free to contact Deaton’s Waterfront Services at (317) 747-4933 or contact us and we’ll get back to you as quick as we can. As always, have a great Memorial Day weekend!