Before You Launch: Essential Tips For Safe Boating At Shootout & Labor Day

With the Lake of the Ozarks Shootout races and Labor Day weekend just ahead, that means lots of boaters on the Lake. The Water Safety Council has a few tips to ensure a safe time for everyone.

“As summer ends we have several tips for water enthusiasts, and remember, boating safety isn’t just for when you’re on the move, it’s equally important to put safety first when at anchor,” said Bob May, Co-Chair of the Lake of the Ozarks Water Safety Council.

Boaters should be courteous and keep their heads on a swivel. Here are some specific tips from the council:

Nose boat with an anchor on a sunny day - stock

Turn Off The Engine – When engaged in water sports or when anchoring, turn off the engine whenever people are present in the water.

Anchor Carefully – Use the right size and type of anchor, and pay out plenty of anchor line to effectively hold the boat. Be careful not to cross anchor lines when near other vessels. Make sure the anchor is up and fully secured when leaving. Observe the no wake zone whether coming or going from the Shootout.

Be Weather Aware – Stay aware of weather forecasts and use a weather service radio if possible.

Have The Cut-Off Lanyard – Federal rules require the use of an engine cut-off lanyard for watercraft 26-feet and under to avoid runaway boat accidents.

Prepare With Lifejackets – Life jackets must be appropriate for the user’s weight and size. A life jacket must always be worn by anyone on a personal watercraft. Boats must have a readily accessible and appropriate jacket for each occupant. If a boat is 16-feet or longer, it must carry a throwable flotation device. In Missouri, children under age 7 must always wear a life jacket while boating.

Be A Sober Boater – Operating a boat while under the influence is against the law in Missouri and any boat operator found with a blood alcohol concentration above 0.08% can be charged with Boating While Intoxicated (BWI).

Water Patrol - Boat - File Photo — LAKE SHOTS PHOTOGRAPHY

The Lake of the Ozarks Water Safety Council is a not-for-profit public service organization that promotes boating and water safety at the Lake of the Ozarks and the Midwest. The Water Safety Council was formed in 2007 with the mission of promoting water safety and to serve as a source for boating and water safety information. The Council has representation from the local area Chambers of Commerce, Missouri State Highway Patrol-Water Division, Camden County Health Department, U.S. Coast Guard, Ameren Missouri, and community members.