Be safe on the lake this summer

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One of Clarendon County’s main attractions is our beautiful Lake Marion. While it is a beautiful place to take your family and relax, it has also proven to be dangerous, if the right precautions are not taken. As sheriff of Clarendon County, I took an oath to protect and serve. Part of my duty to protect and serve is to give knowledge to the community. Following are some boating safety tips that you can use while enjoying the water this summer. Remember, your safety is my No. 1 concern! SAFE BOATING TIPS No matter how much experience you have, it’s always a good idea for everyone to review boating safety rules before departures. Eight basic boating safety tips to help you stay safe: Be Weather-Wise. Always check local weather conditions before departure; TV and radio forecasts can be a good source of information. If you notice darkening clouds, volatile and rough-changing winds or sudden drops in temperature, play it safe by getting off the water. Follow a pre-departure checklist. Proper boating safety includes being prepared for any possibility on the water. Following a pre-departure checklist is the best way to make sure no boating safety rules or precautions have been overlooked or forgotten. Use common sense. One of the most important parts of boating safety is to use your common sense. This means operating at a safe speed at all times, especially in crowded areas; staying alert at all times; and steering clear of large vessels and watercraft that can be restricted in their ability to stop or turn. Also, be respectful of buoys and other navigational aids, all of which have been placed there to ensure your own safety. Designate an assistant skipper. Make sure more than one person on board is familiar with all aspects of your boat’s handling, operations and general boating safety. If the primary navigator is injured or incapacitated in any way, it’s important to make sure someone else can follow the proper boating safety rules to get everyone else back to shore. Develop a float plan. Whether you choose to inform a family member or staff at your local marina, always be sure to let someone else know your float plan. This should include where you’re going and how long you’re going to be gone. A float plan can include the following information: name, address and phone number of trip leader; name and phone number of all passengers; boat type and registration information; trip itinerary; and types of communication and signal equipment onboard. Make proper use of lifejackets. Did you know that the majority of drowning victims are the result of boaters not wearing their lifejackets? Make sure that your family and friends aren’t part of this statistic by assigning and fitting each member of your onboard team with a life jacket prior to departure. Avoid alcohol. Practice boating safety at all times by saving the alcohol for later. The probability of being involved in a boating accident doubles when alcohol is involved and studies have shown that the effects of alcohol are exacerbated by sun and wind. Learn to swim. If you’re going to be in and around the water, proper boating safety includes knowing how to swim. Local organizations, such as the American Red Cross and others, offer training for all ages and abilities. Check to see what classes are offered in your area.