How to Tell if a Frozen Lake is Safe

Photo courtesy of Camille Smith

From ice fishing to reading by the fire, a wealth of winter activities are at your fingertips when you live on the lake. For those who can brave the cold, ice skating, ice fishing, and snowmobiling on a frozen lake are popular activities. What could be more picturesque than skating across a frozen pond in the frosty air? However, unlike indoor, man-made ice rinks with a verified solid surface, skating on a frozen lake is more risky and requires self-inspection. How can you know if a lake is safe for skating? The answer depends on a variety of factors, not one in particular.

Is the Temperature Stabilized?

Photo courtesy of Photo by Isi Parente on Unsplash

As soon as freezing temperatures hit your lake area, the surface of the water may begin to freeze. However, the solid layer of ice doesn’t mean it’s time to bust out the skates. Several other factors such as wind and water currents can make a big difference in the water’s integrity. Before stepping on the ice, it’s a smart idea to wait a few weeks until temperatures have stabilized. This way, the water has more time to freeze through completely! For this reason, you never want to step on the ice too early or too late in the season, when things are just freezing or just thawing.

Are There Cracks in the Surface?

Photo courtesy of Photo by Jenny Salita on Unsplash

When looking up close at the ice, do you notice any cracks, bubbles, or other ruptures in the ice? If so, it’s best to stay on your shoreline. Although it may seem counterintuitive, new ice is much stronger than old ice. With old ice, fluctuations in temperature can cause it to re-freeze which compromises its integrity. The refreezing process causes these bubbles and cracks that weaken the ice. If you aren’t certain about the ice, another visualization check is color. Solid blue ice is much more durable than a layer of white ice. A memorable rhyme that can help: “Thick and blue, tried and true. Thin and crispy, way too risky.”

How Thick Is It?

Photo courtesy of BBC

You’ve probably heard the saying “you’re walking on thin ice” as a warning that if you proceed, things could go wrong at any moment. Taken literally, this phrase describes the precariousness of a frozen pond. When ice is thicker, it’s more stable and safer for winter activities. From visual observation, it’s difficult to determine how thick the ice is. So, you’ll need tools such as an ice auger used for ice fishing to drill or cut samples. In general, less than 3 inches of thickness is too thin unless you’re a child or small animal. To stay safe, don’t venture out onto ice unless it’s 6-8 inches thick.

What Body of Water Is It?

Photo courtesy of Camille Smith

When it comes to determining ice safety, the type of water body is an important consideration. There’s a big difference between stepping onto a large, frozen lake versus a small pond in your backyard. As a principle, larger bodies of water take longer to freeze than smaller ones, so proceed with caution on lakes. Also consider whether it’s a freshwater or saltwater lake, as saltwater freezes with less integrity than freshwater. When in doubt, talk to other locals who have lived in the area through many winters. Chances are, they’ll be able to give you helpful tips for staying safe on the lake! You can also opt for bodies of water that are regulated by a designated authority or government official, such as a national park or resort. This way, you’ll have a third party to give you the green light!

Overall, it’s important to remember that no ice is completely safe. Because water doesn’t freeze uniformly, there might always be unforeseen areas of danger on your frozen lake or pond. But with these tips in mind, you can enjoy the ice with as much precaution as possible!

How to Handle Inclement Weather at the Lake

Photo courtesy of Steve Brimm via Lake Superior Magazine

In part due to climate change, extreme weather is increasing across the world. As a result, heavier rains and high winds directly affect freshwater systems. Since we spend a lot of time outdoors at the lake, it’s crucial to know what to do when encountering these extreme conditions. To make it easier, we compiled a few basic rules to help you stay safe in inclement weather at the lake.

Thunder and Lightning

Photo courtesy of Matt Hufstetler via Price County Review

According to the CDC, the optimal rule for this type of inclement weather is: “When thunder roars, go indoors!” It’s no wonder why. Where thunder is, lightning is not far behind, which is dangerous or even fatal. To protect yourself from thunder and lightning at the lake, keep the 30-30 rule in mind. If you see lightning, count to 30. If you hear thunder before reaching 30, go indoors and do not go back outside until 30 minutes after the last sound of thunder. 

Also, keep in mind that lightning is essentially a giant electrical blast in the sky. As such, it can travel through metal and electronic devices, and it’s best to avoid these materials during a storm. This also includes avoiding water since lightning can travel through plumbing.

High Winds

Photo courtesy of The Hartford

According to The Weather Channel, high winds are the biggest threat to boaters in lake areas. These winds create choppy waves that can easily overturn a boat or fill it with water. This can be especially detrimental if improper flotation devices are used. Be sure to check the weather ahead of time and avoid going out on the lake in high winds. If you do end up there, according to Boatus, “head into the waves at a slight angle, and reduce your speed. This will help you maintain control and avoid falling off of a wave or having a wave break over your stern.” Also, avoid large areas of open water as winds are likely to be stronger there. If you’re caught outside on the land, a good rule of thumb is to seek shelter next to a building.

Tornadoes

Photo courtesy of Espen Bierud on Unsplash

If your lake house is located in the southeast or midwest, chances are, you’re no stranger to tornadoes. These regions most commonly experience tornadoes, especially during the late spring and early summer. A common myth about tornadoes is that they cannot cross lakes or other bodies of water. However, this is simply false. Tornadoes can cross bodies of water, and they can also form on bodies of water — a phenomenon known as a “waterspout.” Tornadoes can also change directions at any time, so anticipating their specific route will not ensure safety. Seek shelter immediately during a tornado in an interior room on the lowest floor of your building.

Hurricanes

Image courtesy of Open Water Chicago via WBCKFM.com

Typically, we think of hurricanes as a form of inclement weather that only affects beach houses. However, hurricanes can still be an issue if you live on a lake in a coastal region. For example, in 1996, a dangerous hurricane hit the Great Lakes region. Although this is the only time a Category I hurricane has impacted the Great Lakes, it’s not entirely out of the question. If you find yourself facing a hurricane, be sure to avoid low-lying, flood-prone areas and instead seek higher ground. And of course, staying away from windows is critical due to the threat of glass breaking.

Snow and Hail

Image courtesy of WNEP.com

Although many forms of inclement weather take place in the spring and summer, there are certain conditions to watch out for during the winter months. To protect you and your lake home from the damage of snow, you can prepare your house by securing your pipes for the winter and owning a snow shovel and other tools. However, one often overlooked form of inclement weather is a hailstorm. They form when raindrops are carried upwards by thunderstorm drafts. 

According to the NOAA, hailstorms outnumber thunderstorms in the U.S. with a 5 to 1 ratio. At a lake house, the best thing to do is take cover. Another important thing to remember is that if you have a garage, use it! Vehicle damage is very common with hailstorms, as these heavy balls of ice can easily break through glass. For the same reason, stay away from windows in your lake house. 

From us at Lake Homes Realty, stay safe out there!

Staying Afloat: Life Jacket Classifications 101

Photo courtesy of DiscoverBoating.com.

“Don’t forget the life jacket!” you’ve probably shouted (or had a family member shout at you) while boarding your boat. Arguably the most critical water safety device, life vests are essential for every lake homeowner. Federal Law requires all boats to be equipped with one wearable life jacket per passenger. The U.S. Coast Guard categorizes PFDs (Personal Flotation Devices) into five categories based on their function and buoyancy. While some are designed for boating in rough waters, others are made for calmer sports like canoeing. Most every type is available in standard (inherently buoyant), inflatable, and hybrid styles. Before focusing on choosing a life jacket style and cleaning and storing them, it’s important to understand these five basic life jacket classifications. 

Offshore Life Jackets (Type I)

Photo courtesy of YachtingWorld.com.

These are the biggest, bulkiest, and most buoyant of the group. This life jacket is suitable for all types of water, but it’s specifically helpful in rough, remote waters where rescue may be slow. Often too intense for recreational use, it’s mandatory for commercial vessels 40+ feet.

Minimum buoyancy: 22lbs (adults) 11lbs (kids)

Advantages: Extreme buoyancy. If an overboard passenger is unconscious, they’ll most certainly stay face-up in the water. 

Disadvantages: Heavier and less comfortable due to excess flotation material. 

Near Shore Vests (Type II)

Photo courtesy of advantagenews.com.

As the name suggests, Near Shore Vests are designed for use in calm waters that are relatively close to the shore. These would be appropriate for activities like fishing and sailing, where a nearby boat could provide rescue. 

Minimum buoyancy: 15.5lbs (adults) 11lbs (children)

Advantages: More comfortable than type I and turn most wearers face-up in the water if unconscious. Simple, reliable design, and inexpensive.

Disadvantage: Compared to Type I, these life jackets are not as useful in a situation where rescue is unlikely. When unconscious, some wearers may not remain face up. 

Flotation Aids (Type III)

Photo courtesy of NauticEd.org.

Similar to Type II, Flotation Aids are made for calm, inland waters. The difference is that flotation aids are specifically useful for watersports like fishing, waterskiing, and wakeboarding. Examples of this type of life jacket include float coats, fishing vests, and water sports vests. 

Minimum buoyancy: 15.5lbs (adults) 11lbs (children)

Advantages: They offer a lot of free movement. Comfortable and come in lots of different styles. 

Disadvantage: Won’t turn an unconscious wearer straight up. 

Throwable Devices (Type IV)

Photo courtesy of TheMariner.com.

When a passenger falls overboard, throw a Type III life jacket their way. A device that is designed to be held rather than worn; this category includes ring buoys, horseshoe buoys, and floating cushions. Like types II and III, they are designed for calm waters with a good chance of quick rescue. 

Minimum buoyancy: 16.5 lbs for a ring buoy or 18 lbs for boat cushion 

Advantage: Can easily be thrown from a boat to the overboard passenger. They’re also easy to carry aboard a boat — just be sure not to use as a cushion as it degrades the foam. 

Disadvantage: Not designed for children and non-swimmers. They also do not count as a “wearable vest” per federal regulations, and can only be used as backup support. 

Special Use Devices (Type V)

Photo courtesy of BetterBoat.com.

This final life jacket category includes vests for unique activities like sailing, kayaking, windsurfing, water skiing, white water rafting. Think of specialized uniforms like deck suits, work vests, and insulated jackets for cold waters.  

Minimum buoyancy: 15.5lbs to 22lbs

Advantages: They’re uniquely tailored to your activity. 

Disadvantages: They are not generalizable for all recreational use. They also require extra effort, as they must be worn when underway. You can’t just have them on board. 

Grab the jacket that’s right for you, and stay safe on the water! 

Pet Safety at the Lake: Your Cat Co-Captain

Photos courtesy of Sintra the Cat, Mero the Adventure Cat and Bryson Burmese Adventure Kitty.

Article co-authored by LakeHomes.com intern Gabrielle France

Not all felines are ‘fraidy cats’! In fact, a growing number of cats are riding the waves across some of America’s favorite lakes this summer.

If you’re ready to hit the open water with your kitty co-captain this lake season, take a look at these few reminders:

Prepare for Travel

As extraordinary as relaxing on the water with your cat sounds, getting to the lake may be a less than stress-free endeavor. Many pets, particularly cats, hate traveling.

To ease her discomfort and to ensure your pet’s safety, secure your feline co-captain in a carrier that is large enough for her to stand and turn around comfortably. Both soft and hard carriers are on the market today, which is best for your pet is ultimately up to you. 

Soft carriers are easy to travel with, compact and work best for calmer pets. The Sherpa Original Deluxe Pet Carrier is a highly-rated option that comes padded with a soft mat, plenty of space, and mesh sides for your kitty companion to see precisely where she is going.

Available at Chewy.com starting at $35, Sherpa carriers come in three different sizes and colors.

Hard carriers are more durable and protective than their soft-sided counterparts. Starting at $24 on Amazon.com, the Petmate is a solid, two-door hard carrier to consider.

This travel case is made of durable plastic and has two doors for your cat to enter or exit on whichever side she prefers.

There are five different colors to pick from and three different sizes.

Your Cat and Water

It’s no secret that most cats dislike getting wet, but did you know their fear of water is not inborn? Some cats are even natural swimmers, especially those native to warmer climates.

Feline friends who fear water are typically those who have never been properly exposed to it.

It is best to get your cat accustomed to water when he is young to make sure he has a natural curiosity to learn.

Being exposed to water early, such as gradually introducing your pet to a few more inches of water in the sink with each bath, will allow for a more natural and safe transition from tolerating to enjoying.

Eventually, when you decide you’re ready to take your cat to the lake, your pet will know what to expect.

For your cat’s protection, be sure Fluffy has a clear lake entrance and exit available, such as a ladder on your boat or dock, or a climbing rope that will allow him to lock in with his claws and exit the water with ease. 

Also be sure to keep noise levels and splashing to a minimum, and always dry your cat’s ears after exiting the water to avoid serious infection.

Life Purrservers

For added pet safety, consider fitting your feline with a pet life vest.

When selecting which life preserver to buy for your pet, consider purchasing a vest with a handle for quick extraction and under-chin padding to keep your cat’s head above water.

While most animal life vests are marketed for dogs, most are compatible with keeping your cat safe, too.

If you’re looking for a life preserver made specifically for your kitty companion, Paws Aboard is the best choice for you!

These jackets are equipped with both a  handle and under-chin padding and come in bright, easy-to-see red. 

Paws Aboard cat life vests are available for purchase on Amazon.com for about $25. Before you buy, always be sure to know your cat’s weight and measurements for proper sizing.

Premier Agent Designation Awarded to 33 at Annual Summit

Thirty-three Lake Homes Realty agents were honored with a Premier Agent designation during the brokerage’s 2017 Agent Summit, held Oct. 17-20.

The designation was awarded to Big Wave and Aqua Award recipients from across eight states, and nearly 25 lake real estate markets.

“We are just so glad to see so many of our agents succeeding in their lake markets,” said Doris Phillips, COO of Lake Homes Realty. “Awarding them with these honors recognizes how hard they have all worked in the last year and what an asset they are to the Lake Homes team.”

Big Wave and Aqua Awards Explained

Lake Homes Realty’s Big Wave Award is presented to agents who have obtained a total transaction volume of at least $3.5 million up to, but not including, $10 million.

Winners of the Aqua Award are agents who have a total transaction volume of $10 million or more.

group of Lake Homes Realty Premier Agents
Nearly 100 Lake Homes Realty and visiting agents attended the 2017 Agent Summit. Of these agents, more than 30 received honors.

“Transaction volume, for the purposes of Lake Homes awards, is based on sale price independent of the sides represented,” explained Lake Homes Realty CEO, Glenn S. Phillips. “Further clarified, this means sale price apart from whether an agent represents a single side of the transaction, either the buyer or the seller side, or both sides.”

This transaction volume must be obtained within a 12-month evaluation period.

For 2017, this evaluation period was from Sept. 1, 2016 through Aug. 31, 2017.

Referral transactions are not included in determining the winners of company’s Big Wave and Aqua Awards.

Award Winning Agents

Aqua Award Winners for 2017:

Big Wave Award Winners for 2017:

LHR Premier Agents Benefits

The Aqua and Big Wave Awards, which are presented annually at the Lake Homes Realty Agent Summit, are two of the company’s most prestigious awards.

“In addition to being recognized for their outstanding effort, performance and dedication to Lake Homes, our agents also reach Premier Agent status as winners of these awards,” said Phillips. “With this designation, agents are able to market themselves as our company’s top earning lake-area real estate experts.”

These agents are some of Lake Homes Realty’s best ambassadors, characterizing the business as convenient, attentive, and passionate about finding its clients the lake-area homes they have always dreamed of.

With continued success and efforts of agents like those awarded Big Wave and Aqua honors, Lake Homes Realty remains the nation’s largest, lake-area real estate focused brokerage.

 

 

 

Choosing the Right Life Jacket

One half of fatalities from recreational boating happen on the calm water, often even close to the shore.

In most cases life jackets are on board, but either go unworn or are not worn properly.

Activities that calls for life jackets are:

  • collection of life jacketsCruising
  • Paddling
  • Angling
  • Waterskiing
  • Racing
  • Swimming
  • Being Next to the Water

All people, from adult males to young children and pets, should wear the life jackets. Here are ways to ensure you have the right one.

Checking the Size

The size and weight information for each jacket can be found on the label. This will tell the range of weight the floatation device can support as well as the recommend height range of users.

Make sure that the jacket is fastened in the right fashion.

To do this, hold your arms over your head. If the tops of the arm openings can be pulled up past your chin, then the jacket is too big. It needs to be able to hold your head out of the water.

Auto Inflatable Life Jackets

This type of life jacket will automatically inflate upon immersion or from manual activation.

If a person wearing an inflatable jacket is in an accident and rendered unconscious, the device will turn the wearer face upwards.

These life jackets are not meant to be worn by children 16 years of age and younger. Additionally, this floatation device is not suitable for use in water sports.

Manual Inflatable Life Jackets

These jackets inflate only when wearers manually trigger the inflation device.

Manually inflatable jackets are cool and comfortable to wear since they are not bulky like most other life jackets.

This kind of jacket will also turn the wearer face up should they be rendered unconscious; however, it has to be inflated before their accident.

These do require some regular maintenance to insure inflation devices and pull cords are in working order and that there are no holes in the jacket itself.  Jackets of this kind should not be worn by children 16 or younger.

They are not recommended for water sports either.

Belt Pack Inflatable

This life preserver will also inflate automatically if it is submerged or it can be manually inflated.

Very easy to wear, this device wraps around and is secured to the wearer’s waist.

It should be placed over the head after it has been inflated and also requires regular maintenance.

Belt packs are not meant for water sports or children 16 and younger.

Vest Life Jackets

This is the most seen life jacket. They are typically orange.

The vest can turn an unconscious person face up and requires very little maintenance.

This is a great life jacket for those who do not know how to swim. It is also versatile as it is great for using as a flotation device. It is normally less bulky than other off-shore vests.

Children’s Hybrid Inflatable

These types of life jackets offer automatic inflation, but it can also be inflated manually.

These do require regular maintenance, and will turn an unconscious person upward like others mention previously.

It is not meant to wear during water sports.

Children’s Life Jacket

These types of life jackets are designed for possible immersion.

It may not turn a person face up, but requires little maintenance.

Most types of life jackets typically includes safety features for your child.

For more information check out the How to Choose the Right Life Jacket brochure from the United States Coast Guard found here.

Keep Your Family Safe, Comfortable, and Active At The Lake

It’s the time of year when outdoor activities ramp up and those enjoying the lake lifestyle lead the way in heading outside.  Taking care of the basics will ensure your family is prepared for all the fun that waits while avoiding some very common, and preventable, family fun killers.

Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate

Drink Water.  Depending on whom you ask, water constitutes 65% to 75% of your child’s body while an adult body contains approximately 65% water…not soda, Kool-Aid or sports drinks. Dehydration can cause headaches, fatigue, crankiness, and can even affect concentration.

If you feel thirsty, you’re probably already starting to dehydrate. So make sure you drink water regularly.  The recommended daily amount of water varies by age from 5 glasses for your five year old to 10 for pre-teens and up.

Food is Awesome

Don’t forget the snacks. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics Handbook, Children should eat three main meals per day and, depending on age, eat 1 to 2 in between meals or healthy snacks.

Two are recommended for younger children while older children may require only a mid afternoon snack. The immediate effect of going too long between meals is a drop in blood sugar levels causing irritability, lack of energy, even confusion.

None of these effects go well with family fun at the lake so enjoy a good meal before heading out and keep those healthy snacks handy.

Prepare for the Power of the Sun

Nothing interferes with family fun like the negative effects of too much sun. Whether it’s the inability to participate in outdoor fun or a child (and parent’s) inability to sleep with sunburn, the sun can be a showstopper.

Use sunscreen with a minimum Sun Protection Factor of 30 (SPF 30) to block both UVA and UVB rays. The higher the SPF number, the better the protection. UVA causes premature aging and suppression of the immune system, increasing the risk of skin cancer.

UVB rays cause sunburn. The intensity of UVB rays varies according to your location, the season, and time of day. 10am to 4pm are peak hours for both UVB rays and family fun so keep the sunscreen handy and apply often.

Clothing is an often-overlooked way of protecting your family from the sun’s harmful rays. All clothing provides some measure of UV protection.

However, clothing with an Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) is specifically designed to protect you and your loved ones.

Depending on your skin type, clothing with a UPF rating of 15 (Good) to 50+ (Excellent) may be required. Those with the most need for UPF rated clothing are children, people with fair skin, and anyone spending an extended period of time on reflective surfaces such as water.

Despite our best efforts, emergencies sometimes happen. Being prepared is key no matter how mild or serious the situation. Immediate access to emergency contact information is a stress reducer and lifesaver.

Prepare Your Smart Phone

Whether you’re a resident, frequent visitor, or enjoying the lake for the first time, programming local emergency numbers and medical providers in your phone saves time when you don’t have time to waste. Protecting your smart phone and all it’s information from water damage will ensure you have the information if needed.

Anything from a water protective case to a well-sealed storage bag will do. Your phone doesn’t float so consider throwing an empty water bottle in the storage bag or attach a float to the case for buoyancy.

If pets are along for the fun, don’t forget to include a local vet in your contacts list.

Keeping your family safe and healthy will ensure your time together is fun for all. It only takes a little thought and preparation to ensure everyone is energized and equipped to go out and make those great family memories that last a lifetime. That’s what the lake lifestyle is all about.

Lake Safety – How to Get CPR Certified

Nobody wants to have to deal with emergencies, but let’s face it, they do happen. So, becoming certified in CPR will help prepare you for those emergencies. And, it will give you the opportunity to save somebody’s life.

There are specific steps that you will need to take in order to become certified in CPR. If you follow these steps, you can rest assured that you will be prepared in the event of a dire situation.

Find a Course in CPR

cpr courseThe first thing you will need to do is find a CPR course that suits your schedule. There are CPR classes that are available both in person, and online. Community centers and hospitals typically have on-going classes available to attend.

You can also visit websites such as the American Heart Association, American Red Cross, and the National Safety Council as they offer courses as well.

There are a number of different courses available for beginners as well as for individuals simply looking to refresh their skills. If you are just interested in learning about CPR, the courses are generally about an hour long, but more extensive courses are available.

Refresher Course

As previously mentioned, there are CPR courses that are geared towards individuals who have had their CPR certification in the past, but would like to take a refresher course simply to brush up on their skills. Certifications are typically only good for two years, so make sure that your certification is current and up-to-date.

Time Commitment

Classes will vary in length so make sure to choose wisely. It is important that the class you are taking fits your schedule. Some can be lengthy, while others you can take online at your own convenience. Regardless of which you choose, make sure that you pick one that you have time to commit to.

First Aid Kit

First AidMake sure you assemble a first aid kit for emergency situations. You should also become trained in first aid as well which will help teach you how to prepare a kit. Make sure your kit has the proper bandages and gauze, as well as sanitizer and a list of CPR instructions.

There are a number of emergencies that can occur, other than those that require CPR. Emergencies such as snake bites, cuts, and scrapes. It is always best to be prepared for any and all types of emergencies.

Those are just some basic steps you will need to take in order to become CPR certified. Many courses that are offered are free or are very low cost. You can call your local community center as well as hospitals to obtain more information as to where you can become CPR certified.

Hopefully, this will be a skill that you never have to utilize, but regardless, it is better to be prepared for any situation you may encounter.

Essential Items to Always Keep Aboard Your Boat

There 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 boat safety equipment and consider items that will provide peace of mind while using your vessel.

First, always ensure that you have the valid Certificate of Number or registration card while the boat is in use. This will allow you to prove registration and ownership.

You should keep at least one wearable life jacket for each person on board your boat. The life jackets must be U.S. Coast Guard-approved, which will be indicated on the label. They also must be the appropriate size for each person and in good condition. A life ring or flotation cushion must be kept on board for vessels 16 feet or longer.Essential Item: Life jacket

In the case of an emergency, a whistle and an emergency light are necessary. Emergency lights come in many varieties. 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. These signals can be orange distress flags (used by day only) or signal flares (for use by night).

Another required item to keep on board 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 while under way. 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. Noise besides that of the laughter and fun from passengers on board. In meeting, crossing, or overtaking situations, sound signals are required, particularly during times of reduced visibility or while at anchor. You will need to keep at least one sound producing device available. These can be a bell, a whistle, air horn, or gong.

To aid in navigation, it is helpful to keep a waterproof 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, keeping a waterproof map would ensure efficient navigation.

Waterproof maps also inform you of any marine hazards, general configuration, and character of the lake floor. They also include prominent landmarks and port 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.

Essential Items: compassA 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.

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 marine 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. These are easy to tuck into a small space out of the way. Don’t forget extra batteries! Extra fuel is a plus, as well as a First Aid Kit, cell phone, (in a waterproof case), personal identification, and binoculars.

To ensure personal comfort, carry with you a change of clothes and foul weather gear such as a poncho or rain jacket. Also keep sunscreen, bottled water, and snacks, in order to combat UV rays, and stay hydrated.

To make things easy for yourself, create a Pre-Departure Checklist to be sure you haven’t forgotten anything once you’re underway.

Preparation is key to having a great time.  With proper safety and convenient equipment, you can enjoy hours on your boat in relaxation, fun, and pleasure.