Time to brush up on boating safety
AUSTIN (KXAN) — Summer’s earlier arrival here means the lakes will be busy with boaters. The National Safe Boating Council has designated May 17-23 as Boating Safety Week. It is designed to ensure that all who take to the waters enjoy them safely.
This summer pastime is one where families and friends come together to enjoy the serenity of being on the water. Some people enjoy the thrill of wakeboarding, while others will head out to their favorite waterway to enjoy the glistening sunsets that are popular in our area.
In other words, some of life’s best moments happen while on the water.
Rich Segal speaks with Morgen Burchell, the director of marketing at Boat Town. The conversation begins with a question about the biggest mistake boaters make. She said two of them are not being prepared and forgetting to stay safe. Like many things in life, preparation is key to a successful boating outing.
When it comes to the preparation process and life jackets, her recommendation is that all boats be equipped with a United States Coast Guard-approved life jacket. She explains what makes these life jackets the best way to go. She also stresses that there should be one life jacket on board per person, as well as the ages at which a life jacket must be worn.
With people moving to Central Texas on a daily basis, it is important that newbies know the rules of boating in Texas. Each state has a different set of rules. Burchell explains the different agencies where people can learn about the rules of the water.
She had one last reminder, one that the First Warning Weather team always stresses in summer’s heat. It is important that people on the boat stay hydrated. That hydration means water, or an appropriate substitute like coconut water or infused water. Beer and alcohol are NOT sources of hydration. Beer contains alcohol. Alcohol is a diuretic and can lead to dehydration.
Have a good and safe boating season.
