Dive In Safely: Your Essential Guide to Summer Water and Boat Safety

Summer in Missouri means warm weather, refreshing water, and plenty of opportunities for fun on the lakes and rivers. Whether you're planning a day at the pool, a trip to the nearby Meramec River, or an adventure on the Lake of the Ozarks, prioritizing water safety and boat safety is crucial. The Black Jack Fire Protection District wants everyone to have a fantastic, safe summer, so let's dive into some key tips for staying secure on and around the water.

Fun in the Sun with Water Safety

Water safety isn't just for kids learning to swim; it's important for everyone, regardless of age or swimming ability. Drowning can happen quickly and silently, so constant vigilance is essential.

• Supervise Actively: The number one rule for swimming safety is active, undistracted supervision, especially for children. Designate a "water watcher" who is solely focused on monitoring those in and around the water, free from phone calls or other distractions.

• "Reach or Throw, Don't Go": If someone is struggling in the water, resist the urge to jump in after them unless you are a trained rescuer. Instead, extend something solid like a pole for them or throw a flotation device to assist them.

• Learn to Swim and Refresh Your Skills: Formal swimming lessons significantly reduce the risk of drowning. Even if you're a strong swimmer, you should consider refreshing your skills, especially if you'll be in open water frequently. Encourage everyone in your family to learn safe swimming techniques.

• Understand Your Environment: Before jumping into a lake or river, know the conditions. Are there strong currents? Hidden hazards below the surface? Is the water deep enough for diving? Always check for hazards and follow posted warnings.

• Wear a Life Jacket When Appropriate: Even strong swimmers can get tired or caught in unexpected currents. When on open water, participating in watersports, or if you're not a confident swimmer, wearing a properly fitted life jacket is a non-negotiable part of safe swimming. Everyone likes to swim unimpeded or look cool without a life jacket, but it’s cooler to stay safe.

Navigate Any Body of Water with Essential Boat Safety Tips

For those heading out on the water in a boat, boating safety is about more than just knowing how to steer. It involves preparation, awareness, and responsible choices that protect everyone on board and other water users.

• Life Jackets are Non-Negotiable: Ensure every person on your boat, regardless of age or swimming ability, has access to a life jacket. Children under 13 in Missouri are legally required to wear one, so make sure everyone's life jacket fits properly.

• Designate a Sober Skipper: Alcohol and boating may seem like the perfect pair in the summer, but it’s safer and smarter to drink on land. Impaired boat operation is a leading cause of boating accidents, so always pick a sober operator who will remain alert and focused on navigating the vessel safely.

• Know Your Vessel: You should be familiar with your boat, which includes safety equipment location and emergency procedures. Understand navigation rules, buoys, and markers. You’ll also need to take a boat safety course, as anyone in Missouri born after 1984 is required to do so to attain a boating license.

• Check the Weather: Before you leave the dock, check the marine weather forecast. Conditions can change rapidly on the water, and sudden storms can be dangerous. If bad weather is on the horizon, head for shore immediately.

• File a Float Plan: Let someone on shore know your boating plans: where you're going, with whom, your estimated return time, and your vessel's description. This information is vital if you don't return as expected so the authorities (like Black Jack) can find you easier.

• Equip Your Boat Properly: Ensure you have essential safety gear on board, including fire extinguishers, sound-producing devices (horn or whistle), navigation lights, and a first-aid kit.

• Maintain Your Boat: Regular maintenance ensures your boat is in good working order. Check fuel levels, engine, battery, and steering before each outing.

Stay Safe and Enjoy Your Summer Fun

If you keep these water safety and boat safety tips in mind, you can minimize risks and maximize the enjoyment of Eureka's beautiful waterways this summer. The crew at Black Jack would prefer you, your friends, and family safely enjoy your time on the water so we don’t have to join you if it turns south. While we provide water rescue, we’d prefer that you have fun without us this summer. Let's make it a season of safe splashes and memorable adventures.