Tag: lake life

Child Water Safety Tips to Consider at The Lake

Posted on Glenn S. Phillips

child water safety, wearing life vestLake homes have a timeless appeal for both children and adults, since people of all ages are so wildly attracted to the water.

Keeping everyone safe around the water needs to be a top priority. This is because of potential threats in, and around the lake or any body of water. Drowning is the fifth leading cause of unintentional injury death in the United States.

Ten people die from unintentional drowning in the U.S. every day, and of these ten drownings, two are children aged 14 or younger.

The following is a number of critical child water safety tips that will help to keep your children and your family safe around the lake. Continue reading “Child Water Safety Tips to Consider at The Lake”

Essential Safety Items to Keep at Your Lake Home

Posted on Glenn S. Phillips

One of the priorities of owning a lake home should be to keep your property and your family safe.

Making safety a priority should be no different than owning or living in a landlocked home. But, because you’re living right on a lake, you’ll need to keep in mind that there are more risks. Especially if you have children.

Here’s a list of some of the most essential safety items that every lake home owner should have on hand:

  • First-Aid Kit – first aid safety kitIt’s surprising how many people don’t have first-aid kits accessible to them in their homes. A first-aid kit should be essential no matter where you live. It will allow you to treat injuries that aren’t severe enough to warrant a trip to the hospital. You can also use the items in your first-aid kit to help provide treatment before heading to the hospital or while waiting for an ambulance. If you have a boat, then you should have a first-aid kit on your boat as well. This is in case any injuries occur while out on the water.
  • Life Vests – Life vests: essential safety itemsLife vests are essential if you own a boat and go out onto the lake, whether occasionally, or on a regular basis.  Wearing a life vest isn’t about your capability as a swimmer.  Even if you are a good swimmer, wearing a life vest while on a boat is absolutely necessary. If you fall into the water (for whatever reason) and are unable to keep yourself afloat, a life vest will save your life. This can be in times where you are unconscious, tired, hurt, or cramping. Life vests are also an absolute must for any children in your family. Not only when they are out on the lake with you, but also while on the pier or by the water’s edge. Especially if your children are younger and have just recently learned how to swim.
  • Battery-Operated Radio – Having a battery-operated radio is a good idea not only as a way to entertain yourself while out on the lake, but also to keep you up-to-date on any weather warnings. This is important and could be useful if your power has gone out during a storm.
  • Battery-Operated Flashlight – Lake homes tend to be in more natural areas where there may not be as much street light as there would be in a suburban home. This means that having a flashlight is a must if you go outdoors at night and don’t have motion sensing exterior light fixtures. Not to mention that if the power goes out, you’ll definitely want a moveable light source when the sun sets.
  • Extra Batteries – There’s nothing more frustrating than having a radio and flashlight to use during a power outage, but no full batteries to use them. Make sure you’re stocked up on extra batteries.
  • Smoke Alarms – Every home should have smoke alarms to warn you and your family of fire. Make sure you have smoke alarms on every level of your house. Also, be sure to change the batteries every 6 months.
  • Carbon Monoxide Detectors – Like smoke alarms, you should also have carbon monoxide detectors on every level of your home. Carbon monoxide is an odorless and colorless gas, representing a potentially deadly threat to home residents.  If carbon monoxide in your home has reached dangerous levels, you won’t realize it until it’s too late.
  • Exterior Lighting – Because it tends to get much darker around the lake than in the city, you should strongly consider investing in better exterior lighting. Consider path lights for your walkway and a motion sensing flood light for your garage area. Motion sensors are energy efficient since they only turn on when someone walks within range. Further meaning you can keep the outside area nice and dark when you’re trying to sleep, but well lit when walking to and from the home’s exterior.
  • List of Emergency Phone Numbers – emergency phone number list for safetyWrite down a detailed list of emergency phone numbers that include the police department, fire department, the hospital, a family doctor, your neighbors, and close friends and family. Speak with your children (if you have any) and instruct them on what to do. How to call, when to call, and which number to call for different emergencies. Make sure you keep the list in a visible and easily accessible location.

Nobody wants to think about danger or harm coming to their family or friends. Often times, we dismiss the possibility of emergencies with a that-wouldn’t-happen-to-me sort of attitude. These are all essential items that you should invest in and have at your lake house. These items will ensure the preparedness and safety of your family and property.

As Shakespeare’s Hamlet so dutifully noted, “the readiness is all.”

How To Get Your Lake Home Rented Fast to Great Tenants

Posted on Glenn S. Phillips

Many lake home and vacation homeowners rent out their properties during the year to offset their property’s holding costs, but also to earn additional income as well.

But renting out your lake home can be a lot easier said than done, especially if you’re looking to get your lake home rented quickly.

There are a number of factors to consider when trying to rent out your home quickly to great tenants, including how to set the rental price, how to find your renters, and how to market the property effectively: Continue reading “How To Get Your Lake Home Rented Fast to Great Tenants”

Tips on How to Deal with Bugs & Insects on the Lake

Posted on Glenn S. Phillips
Woman applying mosquito repellent bug spray next to lake
Photo courtesy of Mamavation.

There are a huge number of advantages to living in a lake house. From the scenic views to the ability to go fishing or swimming whenever you want. However, like every other place in the world, there are always a few drawbacks – even if they are small ones. For example, living on a freshwater lake means that you may have to deal with a few bugs now and again, whether they’re harmless mayflies or those pesky mosquitoes. The following are a few tips on how to deal with bugs and insects (the pesky variety) so that they don’t take away from the amazing lake living experience:

Mosquitoes

Mosquito spray bug repellent

Mosquitoes are easily one of the most irritating bugs to deal with. Odds are you’ve been bitten by a mosquito at least once or twice in your lifetime.

Mosquitoes breed and thrive in an environment that combines standing water, heat, and humidity. These conditions are optimal for them to breed. This means that when summer comes around, odds are you’ll see your share of mosquitoes around the lake.

The following are a few tips to help you deal with those mosquitoes so that they don’t ruin your summer. After all, you’ll want to enjoy those sunsets without swatting at mosquitoes every second.

  • Install ceiling fans – Mosquitoes do not take kindly to breezy environments. If your lake home doesn’t already have ceiling fans, you should consider installing them. Not only will they keep mosquitoes away – they’ll also improve the comfort of your home! If you have a porch or a deck that you enjoy using during the spring or summer seasons, you may want to consider installing a ceiling fan or two out there as well.
  • Install screens – We all like to leave our doors and windows open during the warmer days of the year in order to allow fresh air to circulate throughout the house. However, this is an open invitation to mosquitoes. Install screens so that you can open your home up without letting any mosquitoes or other flying bugs in. You may even want to screen your porch in if you haven’t done so already.
  • Avoid standing water – Yes, your lake home is technically sitting on a huge area of standing water. However, prevent mosquitoes from laying eggs even closer to your home by making sure you don’t leave any form of standing water out in your yard.
  • Add citronella plants to your yard – Mosquitoes can’t stand citronella. You can use citronella candles to help keep mosquitoes at bay as well as put citronella oil on your skin to keep from being bitten. You may even want to plant a few citronella plants in your yard around your home. Even potted citronella plants on your porch can help prevent a mosquito invasion.

Mayflies

Bug spray Young child near flying insects
Photo courtesy of Mamavation.

Okay, so mayflies aren’t nearly as annoying as mosquitoes – mostly because they don’t bite. But, that doesn’t mean that they aren’t a huge nuisance.  After all, nobody wants a cloud of mayflies surrounding their head as they try to enjoy the outdoors.

  • Replace lights – Mayflies are attracted to certain colored-lights. Light bulbs that produce a yellowish color won’t attract mayflies as much. Neither will sodium vapor bulbs. Consider replacing your outdoor light bulbs and turn all outdoor lights off when you turn in for the night. If you prefer to leave lights on for security reasons, consider installing motion-detecting lights that only turn on when motion is detected.
  • Keep the yard clean – Keep the area around your yard clean, keeping the grass trimmed and rid of dead organic matter. This includes leaves and branches which can attract mayflies.

Roaches and Ants

Roaches and ants can be a problem no matter where you live, whether it’s on the lake or in the city. Keep the following tips in mind to help prevent roach or ant infestations:

  • Don’t leave food out – Never leave food out, in or outside your home. This is sure to attract roaches or ants. Always throw away your leftover food in a sealed garbage can, garbage disposal, or put it away in your refrigerator.
  • Seal gaps – Go through your lake home and make sure there are no gaps in your window and door openings. Caulk your windows and add weatherstripping to your doors to eliminate entry points.
  • Keep the area around your home clear – You should have at least a foot of space between your lake home’s exterior and any shrubs, mulch, or trees to help protect against easy entry into your home by insects.

Living on a lake can be an absolutely amazing experience so don’t let the thought of bugs put you off. Following these tips can certainly help to keep your lake home bug-free. For more tips and advice on enjoying your time at the lake, read here.

Must Have Items For Safe Boating

Posted on Glenn S. Phillips

Family on boatThere are many ways that you can ensure safety as well as enjoyment as a boat operator. It is a good idea to familiarize yourself with safety equipment and consider items that will provide comfort while using your vessel.

Always ensure that you have the valid Certificate of Number while the boat is in use. This will allow you to prove registration and ownership should you be approached by law enforcement.

You should also keep on your boat at least one wearable life jacket for each person on board.

The life jackets must be U.S. Coast Guard-approved, which would be indicated on the label. They also must be the appropriate size and type for each person, and in good condition.

A throwable, such as a life ring or flotation cushion, must be kept on board for vessels 16 feet or longer.Flotation device for boat safety

In the case of an emergency, a whistle and an emergency light would be necessary. Emergency lights come in many varieties such as strobe lights that can be attached to the boat, lantern-styles, and utility style for bright, adequate illumination. Distress signals are required for boat use as well. Signals such as an orange distress flag (used by day only), or signal flares.

Another item required to keep on board for safe boating is a fire extinguisher. Although you are surrounded by water, it is still necessary to keep a fire extinguisher handy in case of a fire. Be sure that you have the correct type for your boat, meeting the minimum requirements for the size and type of your vessel.

There are some situations in which you may need to make lots of noise, besides the laughter and fun from passengers on board. In meeting, crossing, or overtaking situations, sound signals are required. This is particularly during times of reduced visibility or while at anchor. You will need to keep at least one sound producing device available, such as a bell, a whistle, air horn, or gong.

To aide in navigation, it is helpful to keep a lake map available for reference. Many boats come equipped with GPS, which is the most convenient way to navigate waters.

But in the absence of GPS, or if it fails for whatever reason, keeping a lake map would ensure efficient navigation. Lake maps also inform of any lake hazards, general configuration, and character of the bottom and will include prominent landmarks and facilities.

Besides safety equipment, there are many things that you can keep on your boat that will ensure comfort and convenience. A VHF Radio would be used for communication and emergency traffic, and an AM-FM radio would be great for your favorite tunes or to catch up on local news.

A compass is a great idea to keep on board, as well. You can purchase a magnetic compass to ensure that your boat is pointed in the right direction at all times.Compass for boat safety

Be sure to always keep a tow line on board, and that it is an efficient length. 75′ is recommended, by at least 1/2″ thick. A small tool kit and spare parts would come in handy should you ever find yourself in a situation that requires repair.

Waterproof flashlights in various sizes and styles can be purchased as well and would be easy to tuck into a small space out of the way. And don’t forget extra batteries!

Advantages of Buying Vs. Renting A Lake Home

Posted on Glenn S. Phillips

lake home for saleLiving in a waterfront home is a dream for many Americans, and it’s easy to understand why.

The water is enchanting, peaceful, and seems to offer a different view every time you gaze upon it. Shoreline homes offer great places to escape the noise and stress of the city as well as entertain friends and family.

Owning a lakefront home is a sweet reward reflecting success for many Americans. There are, however, several pros and cons to consider when buying or renting.

We’ve listed several advantages of buying vs. renting a lake home below:

When Owning a Lake Home is Better than Renting

  1. Building equity – The chief reason to buy a waterfront home as opposed to renting one is that you can build equity in your new home each time you make a mortgage payment. Since waterfront property is highly prized in most parts of the United States, there is less downside equity risk involved with owning shoreline property.
  2. You know where you’ll be staying – When you rent a waterfront house for the summer season, you usually have to start looking the day after New Year’s to secure a place for the coming season. Even when you’re a long-time renter, there’s no guarantee that the place you’ve grown to love will be available for the coming summer. The owner may run into financial difficulties and decide to sell the home or may choose to stay there for the summer. When you own the lake house, you will know exactly where and when you will enjoy lake season, year after year.
  3. You can pass it down – When you buy a waterfront home, it becomes part of your estate, and you can enjoy the thought of your children and grandchildren spending their summers at the house long after you’re gone, ensuring many more fond family memories will be made.
  4. You have an any-time retreat – No one says you can only use your lake home in the summer. When you own a lake home, you have a place to which you can retreat for the weekend or gather for holiday celebrations.

Sometimes Renting a Lake Home Makes More Sense

As intriguing as owning a lakefront property may be, there are some scenarios where renting a lakefront home might make more sense.

  1. You’re simply unsure about owning waterfront property – One very good reason to opt to rent rather than buy a lakefront house, at least for a few years, is to see if owning–and maintaining–a waterfront house is right for you and your family. It’s much easier to change your mind if you rent.
  2. The size of your family may change – Another good reason to consider renting instead of buying is if you think your family size may change. For instance, if you have a house full of teenagers today, in a decade they will all likely be at college, married, and have families of their own. That five-bedroom home that is just perfect for your family today will be way too much house for you in a few years.
  3. It’s easier to forecast expenses – Shoreline homes have different maintenance needs than homes in the city. When you rent, painting, maintaining the waterfront, and taking care of the dock are the landlord’s responsibility. Not having these added, unfamiliar expenses makes it easier to stick to your summer budget.
  4. You don’t have to spend money on furnishings – Many seasonal rental homes are offered furnished, saving you from furnishing a home you might only use part of the year.

Spending the summer in a lake home can create memories that your family will enjoy for the rest of their lives. While buying such a property is certainly intriguing, it’s wise to weigh the pros and cons of owning versus renting.

Understanding Endangered Species Along Your Shoreline

Posted on Glenn S. Phillips

As a homeowner, one of the best real estate investments you can make is in waterfront property. Homes on the water make excellent retirement or vacation homes because of their location and natural beauty. They also present special challenges though when it comes to endangered or protected animal species.

Here’s what you need to know about how the Endangered Species Act could affect your own private shoreline. Continue reading “Understanding Endangered Species Along Your Shoreline”

9 Great Reasons Why People Love Living on the Water

Posted on Glenn S. Phillips
American Lake House with Stunning Rock Walk Way

Whether you’re looking for a full-time residence or a vacation retreat, a home on the water is an excellent choice for a number of reasons. Perhaps you’ve dreamed of owning a home near water, but never really considered all the advantages in doing so? If so, here are nine great reasons why people just love living on the water:

Continue reading “9 Great Reasons Why People Love Living on the Water”