Have A Fun & Safe Memorial Day Weekend On Your Watercraft

Memorial Day Weekends is one of the busiest boating weekends at the Lake of the Ozarks. Iguana Boat Sales wants to ensure you have a fun and accident-free time this holiday weekend. This year, National Safe Boating Week is May 20 - 26, which falls right before Memorial Day Weekend. In observance of this week and in preparation for Memorial Day Weekend, Iguana Boat Sales wants to focus on some safe boating practices you can do to help make sure you have a fun and safe time boating this holiday weekend.

Before You Depart

Just like you would a car before a road trip, it's a good idea to ensure your boat is in proper working order before taking it out onto the water.

- Check fuel levels.
- Check engine for leakage, excess water or heavy odors, as these could be signs of a serious issue.
- Ensure all lights are functioning and check for any electrical issues.
- Test all communication devices.
- Run the blowers to evacuate fumes and vapors from the bilge.
- Use a floating bobber for your boat and car keys in case they go overboard.

Before taking off, share your plans with friends or family. Include your destination and expected return time. In addition, check the local weather, water reports and boating forecasts. Don't head out if there will be bad weather.

While Out On The Lake

In addition to making sure your boat is in proper working condition, it's important to make sure everyone on board follows safety precautions. Whether you are the driver or just along for the ride, everyone plays an important role in boating safety.

- Don't exceed the number of passengers allowed on your watercraft.
- Ensure the engine is shut off while passengers are loading and unloading, especially during activities like tubing, water skiing, water boarding and swimming.
- Ensure there are enough life jackets for everyone on board. Always wear your life jacket while tubing, water skiing and wake boarding. In addition, children should wear their life jacket at all times.
- Don't drink and drive. If you do decide to consume alcohol while boating, ensure there is a sober driver.
- To reduce the chance of falling out of the watercraft, ensure all passengers remain seated while the boat is in motion.

Stay Safe This Memorial Day Weekend

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. Our boat gurus look forward to showing you our inventory.

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4363 Osage Beach Parkway, Osage Beach, MO

Being Safe On The Water Labor Day Weekend

Labor Day Weekend at the Lake of the Ozarks marks the end of the summer season. It is one of the last big boating weekends of the summer, so many people from all over come to the Lake area, which means there will be more people out on the water than usual. Whether you own your own boat, or you're renting from Lake of the Ozarks' best watercraft rental company, safety while out on the water, especially during busy holiday weekends, is important. The best boat dealer at the Lake of the Ozarks has a few tips for when your out on the water this Labor Day Weekend.

Photo Credit: FunLake.com

1. Be Aware Of Your Surroundings

It is important to be aware of what other people are doing on the water, not just on Labor Day Weekend, but always. However, the weather is looking nice for this weekend, so there will be many people out on the water enjoying the last long weekend of the summer. Although you need a license to operate a motorized boat in the state of Missouri, there are still inexperienced boaters out on the Lake. It is important to remain cautious and alert while out on the water. If you are renting a boat, make sure you know how to properly operate it before taking off. 

2. No Drinking While Operating the Boat

Just like you should not drink and drive a car, you shouldn't drink and operate a boat. In fact, it is against the law. Drinking while boating increases the chances of an accident since alcohol affects judgment, vision , balance and coordination. Alcohol contributes to a third of all recreational boating fatalities, so make sure your family and friends are safe this holiday weekend and do not drink and operate a boat. 

3. Have An Emergency Kit Onboard

It is a good idea to keep an emergency kit on board in case there is an accident. Make sure the kit is in a dry bag or a floatation device. A map, first aid kit, cell phone and flares are all good things to keep in the kit. 

4. Wear A PFD

A simple, effective and life-saving strategy for safe recreational boating is wearing a life jacket. According to Missouri law, boats are required to have U.S. Coast Guard approved life jacket for every passenger on their watercraft. Although boats have the appropriate number of life jackets aboard, it is important to wear them. If you choose not to wear one, make sure it is in a place you can reach quickly, as you never know if there is going to be an accident. 

5. Avoid Bad Weather

Obviously, you can't change the weather. However, you can choose when to not head out onto the water. Although the weather is looking clear now, it could always change. It is important to know how to spot when a storm is coming, especially if you are out on the water. Sudden wind changes, lightning flashes and choppy water all can mean there is an oncoming storm. If there is bad weather approaching, get off the water as soon as possible. 

Iguana Wishes Everyone A Safe Holiday Weekend!

Safety is the key to having an enjoyable time out on the water. Whether you plan to buy or rent your watercraft, your safety is our number one concern at Iguana Boat Sales. If you are in need of boating accessories or floatation devices, stop by our store in Osage Beach or visit us online at www.IguanaBoatSales.com. Iguana Boat Sales wishes everyone a safe and fun Labor Day Weekend. 

573-355-5027
Check out our Website:
Iguana Boat Sales
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4363 Osage Beach Parkway, Osage Beach, MO