Staying Safe on the Water

Memorial Weekend is traditionally the first big weekend of the summer for many boaters.  As you prepare yourself and your vessel for that fun day on the water don’t neglect water safety for you and for your guests.

Water safety is all about knowing your risks and taking appropriate actions.  One of the easiest ways you can protect yourself is by wearing a personal flotation device when you take to the water to boat or paddle.

Here in the Tennessee River Valley, our waterways have seasonal fluctuations and varying levels of boat traffic.   Each year, there are drownings that may have been preventable if the boater or paddler had been wearing a life jacket.   

May 22 to May 28 is National Boating Safety Week.  Safety begins with risk assessment.  If you are planning to paddle a river or new waterway that you have not paddled before, know before you go.  Are there hazards such as low head dams or strong current conditions to be aware of?  For boaters, make sure you check for hazards that might be submerged and always adhere to boating rules for passing another boater.  Stay alert to other boat traffic around you.

Finally, be the “designated driver” to make sure everyone makes it back to land safely.  When the boat is in motion, ask your guests to wear their life jackets.  Paddlers, be the expert for what to anticipate on your paddling adventure.  

Stay safe and enjoy your day on the water.