Iguana Observes National Safe Boating Week: May 21-27, 2016

Boating at the Lake of the Ozarks can be a thrilling way to spend the day on the water. By following proper boating safety measures, you can ensure your trip is fun and accident free. National Safe Boating Week is observed May 21 - 27, 2016. The National Weather Service has partnered with the National Safe Boating Council to help promote safe boating practices. In observance of National Safe Boating Week, Iguana Boat Sales wants to emphasize these things that could save your life the next time you and your family are out on the water:

Do Not Boat Under the Influence  

The effects of alcohol while operating a watercraft can be even more hazardous on the water than on land. Boating under the influence (BUI) of drugs or alcohol affects judgement, vision, balance, and coordination. These impairments can increase the risk of being in a boating accident, which could cause harm to the passenger and boat operator. Alcohol contributes to a third of all recreational boating fatalities.

Pay Attention to the Weather Forecast

Weather conditions can change suddenly, catching boaters off guard and creating hazardous conditions. Boaters should take particular note of any current weather advisories, storm warnings, high winds, as well as pay attention to the extended forecast.

Wear Life Jackets

Wearing a life jacket is one of the most effective and simple life-saving strategies for safe recreational boating. Boats are required to have on board a U.S. Coast Guard approved life jacket for every passenger on their watercraft.  Today, life jackets come in many sizes, are lightweight, and comfortable for any boating activity.

Have a Fire Extinguisher On Board Your Vessel

Boats are required to carry U.S. Coast Guard approved, marine-type fire extinguishers, in case of a fire from the engines or the fuel system. The boater shouldn't have to travel more than half the length of their boat to reach the fire extinguisher. Fire extinguishers should be inspected by the boater to ensure they are properly charged, stored, and undamaged. 

Thunderstorm Safety

Thunderstorms can be frightening to a boat operator and its passengers. They develop suddenly and bring strong, gusty winds, lightening, and torrential downpours, which can turn a pleasurable day on the lake into a nightmare. All thunderstorms generally produce lightening and a strike to a vessel can be catastrophic, especially if it results in fire or a loss of electronics. If your boat doesn't have a cabin, stay as low as you can in your boat. If thunderstorms are a possibility, stay in - waiting it out is better than riding it out in a storm. 

Iguana Boat Sales Wants You to Have a Safe and Fun Time on the Water

Before getting in your boat at the Lake of the Ozarks, make sure you take the appropriate measures to ensure your safety on the water. By being prepared, paying attention to the weather forecast, and stocking your boat with the required items, your lake outing should not only be safe, but enjoyable! Iguana Boat Sales delivers exceptional value, exclusive selection, and above all outstanding customer service. We have selected some of the best boat brands to offer you the right combination of price, quality, and value. Visit our showroom in Osage Beach, if you are in the market for a used or new boat at the Lake of the Ozarks. We look forward to showing you our inventory.

 

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4363 Osage Beach Parkway, Osage Beach, MO