3 Tips for Staying Safe on Your Dock this Winter

Winter weather can cause issues for homeowners, especially those with homes on the water. For many of you, avoiding your boat dock during the winter months is the best option. However, if you get hit by a winter storm, you may feel the need to go down and check on it. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind when going on your dock and boat lift at the Lake of the Ozarks this winter:

1. Be Cautious During Ice and Snow Removal.

Dock owners attempting to remove snow and ice from their dock during inclement weather should be extra careful. Not only could you slip and fall into the frigid waters, but the added weight from the snow and ice could cause the dock to collapse. Falling into the extremely cold water can cause hypothermia to set in quickly, rending a person helpless in the water. If you insist on being on your dock during winter conditions, always wear a life jacket and use the buddy system.

2. Treat All Wires as Live Wires. 

Winter storms can cause electrical issues on your dock. Strong winds and/or ice can damage wires. Remember to treat any and all damaged electrical wires around docks as if they were still live. Even if the power is shut off, these loose wires could pose a threat. If you suspect electrical damage on your dock, the best thing to do is make sure the power is completely shut off and then call in an electrician to take a look at it. Most electrical companies will come out and inspect your dock electricity for free.

3. Make Sure Your Dock is Secure.

Winter weather can take it's toll on your dock. Depending on how secure your dock is, it's possible for a large chunk of ice to damage it, make it crash into the shore and/or even break it free. Check your hardware to ensure everything on your dock is secure. You might even want to tie a line from the dock to a fixed object on land that will not break if pulled. Keep in mind that icy conditions also weaken dock cables, which may need to be replaced or repaired in the spring.

Summerset Boat Lifts wants to make sure you, your dock, your boat and your boat lift all stay safe this winter. The winter weather is just beginning here at the Lake of the Ozarks and we don't know what to expect in 2016. Preparing your property now, will save you from costly repairs in the spring. You want to make sure your Lake of the Ozarks boat lift, dock and boat are all ready to hit the water as soon as the warm weather hits!

Summerset Boat Lifts

1165 Jeffries Road Osage Beach, MO  65065

573-348-5073

Email:info@summersetboatlifts.com

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