Be considerate when going out on a boat

Summer outdoor fun comes in many different varieties. We encourage people to enjoy them all but to concentrate on safety and consideration for others.

That’s especially true for those who take to the water in boats, kayaks, personal watercraft and the like. One inconsiderate person can ruin the fun for other people on a lake.

James Wassell, operations manager at French Creek and Marsh Creek state parks; Brianna Treichler, Blue Marsh Lake park ranger, and a few veteran boaters have some tips for proper boating etiquette.

• Obey no-wake zones: Whether you are tooling around on any motorized vessel, go as slow as you can (idle speed) within 100 feet of shoreline, docks, launch ramps, swimmers or downed skiers; people wading; anchored, moored or drifting boats and floats. Those waves your vessel makes can wreak havoc and put others at risk.

• Rendering aid: This is required if you are in an accident. Not only is it the law, but caring for other boaters makes the lake a community.

• Ramp courtesy: To keep boat launches clear, Bob Entler, co-host of “Great Day Outdoors” radio show and podcast, recommends that new boaters practice backing up to the ramp in the less-crowded evening. Have everything and everyone ready to go so you don’t have to stop or turn around. Kevin Simpson, a boater from Hamburg, warns people to not tie their boats to the inside of the docks when launching and retrieving boats, as it blocks the ramp.

• Watch where you park: Park in designated spots rather than on the grass or in picnicking areas to keep parks green rather than muddy..

• Keep it clean: Remember to pack out what you take in. Litter becomes everyone’s problem. Wassell says cleaning up fishing line is particularly important to protect wildlife.

• Give people space: It’s never fun when another boat, kayak or paddle board runs over your fishing line or bumps into you. Simpson urges boaters to learn about rights of way.

• Be patient: There are beginners out on the water, and more experienced boaters should show understanding. Meanwhile new boaters should learn the rules and regulations for any body of water they may be visiting since these can vary. Take a boater safety education course before heading out on the water. State law requires Boater Safety Cards for all operators of personal watercraft, aka Jet Skis, and any vessel that has an engine greater than 25 horsepower.

• Your vest: Wassell emphasizes the importance of remembering to bring a life vest. This includes people aboard kayaks and paddleboards. “It’s the law, and we want to make sure everyone is safe out there,” he said. “We all are out to enjoy the peace and beauty of the lakes and parks. Have fun, relax, and enjoy.”

“Always wear your life jacket to prevent drowning,” Treichler added. “Expect the unexpected, a life jacket worn means nobody mourns.”

• COVID-19 changes: Treichler noted that the pandemic has changed the way people interact, but we can still be courteous with one another and offer help while keeping health guidelines in mind. Wearing a face covering when you cannot keep a safe distance from others while launching your boat or helping a fellow boater helps you keep them safe and helps them keep you safe.

Here are a few other boating tips from the National Safety Council:

• Make sure your equipment is in working order before going out on the water.

• Respect your limits and keep within your limits to avoid injury.

• Don’t drink and drive a boat; alcohol affects judgment, vision, balance and coordination.

• Once on the water, use common sense; in a split second, a situation can arise or the weather can turn.

• If you notice storm clouds, a sudden temperature drop or wind speed increasing, play it safe and get off the water.

It bears repeating. Whether you’re swimming, boating, grilling or using fireworks for summer fun, keep safety in mind so you can leave behind happy memories rather than regret.