National Safe Boating Week Safety Tips!

It's officially National Safe Boating Week and our boat lift company at the Lake of the Ozarks is here to help spread awareness. Boating is one of the most fun summer activities at our beautiful lake. With that recreation comes some danger. Summerset Boat Lifts wants to help keep everyone safe and remind you of the safety precautions you should take any time you are boating!

What is National Safe Boating Week?

National Safe Boating Week will be held from May 22-28, 2021, reminding all boaters to brush up on boating safety skills and prepare for the boating season. This observance week is the annual kick-off of the Safe Boating Campaign, a global awareness effort that encourages boaters to make the most of their boating adventure by being responsible.

Top Boating Safety Tips:

Always Wear a Life Jacket

A life jacket can save a life. Many people think they don't need a life jacket because they are a good swimmer. Being a good swimmer doesn't help if you are involved in a boating accident. You may be disoriented or even worse, unconscious.

Be Aware of Surroundings

Just like on the highway, the traffic on the water can change in an instant. When driving a boat, you must be aware of all other boaters on the water, and other objects along the water. This can help you more safely navigate your way through boat traffic and in and out of busy boating areas. If you aren't comfortable in type of areas, consider staying to a less crowded part of the water.

Designate a Sober Captain

If you plan on drinking out on the water, make sure you have a designated captain to safely operate your vessel. Just like getting behind the wheel of a vehicle, driving a boat is a big responsibility and having your complete attention is vital for a safe boating experience.

Life Jacket Fit Test:

It's important that your life jacket fits properly. Check out some quick tips to ensure a safe fit. 

• Make sure the life jacket is properly fastened
• Check the weight and size of the life jacket to ensure it is a good fit for you
• All straps, buckles, or zippers are secure
• Hold arms straight up over your head
• Ask a friend or guardian to gently pull up on the lifejacket to assure a snug fit

With the big holiday weekend upon us, it's important to keep these safety tips top of mind while you're out on the boat. If you have any issues with your boat lift at the Lake of the Ozarks, give our experienced service time a call right away! Summerset Boat Lifts is here for you and wishes you and yours a safe Memorial Day Weekend!

Summerset Boat Lifts

1165 Jeffries Road Osage Beach, MO  65065

573-348-5073

Email:info@summersetboatlifts.com

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Top 5 Spring Boating Safety Tips

Spring is here and boating season is upon us! Many have extra time on our hands due to recent regulations on social distancing. Summerset Boat Lifts knows there's no better place to distance yourself than your boat! Take the family out for a cruise or get away with a solo fishing trip, your boat can help you enjoy the great outdoors while keeping your distance from others. As more and more boats are out on the lake right now, our boat lift company at the Lake of the Ozarks is going to cover some boating safety tips.

1) Stock your Boat

Ensure your boat is ready for the season ahead. This involved making sure you have enough life jackets on board for all passengers. You also need to have boat registration, a throwable PFD, and a fire extinguisher on the vessel. Gather these items before you hit the water this spring!

2) Bring Clothing Layers

The temps may be warm but the feels-like temperature can drop once you're out on the boat moving. The cooler wind across the water and the boat moving can both cause the temperature to feel much cooler than it is. It's best to be prepared and pack some additional layers for your spring boating outing.

3) Check Weather

Missouri weather can change within minutes. It's best to check the forecast before dropping your lift and heading out on the lake. If you're already out and notice a shift in weather, head back to the safety of your dock. Being out on the lake during a storm is dangerous. It's best to keep an eye on the weather before you launch and while you're out boating.

4) Be Aware of Surroundings

The water level is still relatively low and there is an increase in boat traffic on the lake. Keep an eye on other boaters and be aware of low water areas. With lower and fluctuating water levels, it's best to steer clear of low spots. Hitting the bottom can cause serious damage to your boat, cause injuries to you and your passengers, and bend or break your propeller.

5) Share Boating Plan

Someone on land should know your boating plans. This involves the area in which you're planning to travel and your estimated time of return. If you aren't back within a reasonable amount of time of your planned return, this information can help if a search needs to be conducted.

Bonus Tip: The water is still much colder than the air. Jumping or falling in the water may cause your body to go into shock and make it difficult to breath and swim to safety. It's best to wear a life jacket when you are around the water, especially this time of year.

The best boat lift company at the Lake of the Ozarks wants to remind everyone to take extra precautions as boating season takes off this spring. There may be an increase in boat traffic due to area businesses closing or allowing employees to work remotely. Remember to be aware of your surroundings when boating on the beautiful Lake of the Ozarks!

Summerset Boat Lifts

1165 Jeffries Road Osage Beach, MO  65065

573-348-5073

Email:info@summersetboatlifts.com

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How to Avoid a Boating Accident

One of the most popular summer activities at the Lake of the Ozarks is boating. Each year, hundreds of people flock to the lake area to hit the water and enjoy some vacation time on the lake. Today's blog focuses on the importance of boating safety and how to avoid an accident. Take a look at some of last year's boating accident statistics and pay special attention to our tips for avoiding a boating accident. Summerset Boat Lifts wants you to have fun on the water, while also staying safe!

Boating Accident Statistics

Take a look at these statistics below and you'll understand the importance of boater education and boater safety precautions. Don't become a statistic - stay safe out on the water this summer!

• According to the Coast Guard, there were 4,463 boating accidents in 2016. Those accidents involved 701 deaths and 2,903 injuries. 
• Where the cause of death was known, 80% of boating accident fatalities were a result of drowning. Of those drownings, 83% were not wearing life jackets. 
• Alcohol use is the leading known contributing factor in fatal boating accidents. 
• 77% of boating deaths occurred where the operator did not receive boating safety instruction. 
• Operator inattention, operator inexperience, improper lookout, excessive speed and machinery failure rank as the top five primary contributing factors in boating accidents. 

Tips for Avoiding a Boating Accident

By following these few simple tips below, you'll be less likely to be involved in a boating accident:

1. Don't drink and drive a boat. 
2. Take a boater safety course. 
3. Wear a life jacket. 
4. Store safety equipment on board. 
5. Know the rules of navigation on the waterways. 
6. Avoid excessive speeds. 
7. Don't overload your boat. 
8. Check the weather before you set out. 
9. Stow paddles or oar and anchor in case your motor stops working. 
10. Make sure your boat is properly maintained. 
11. Know what to do in the event of an emergency. 

Happy Boating from Summerset Boat Lifts! If you're in need of a new boat lift or boat lift repair at the Lake of the Ozarks, you know who to call. From sales and installation to repairs and service, we are your premier boat lift company at the Lake of the Ozarks. Give us a call at 573-348-5073.

Summerset Boat Lifts

1165 Jeffries Road Osage Beach, MO  65065

573-348-5073

Email:info@summersetboatlifts.com

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Boat Lift and Boat Dock Safety

The weather is warming up and boating season is upon us. While it's important to be safe while out on the water, it's just as important to have a safety first mindset when on the dock and dealing with your Lake of the Ozarks boat lift. Keep reading for some safety tips from Summerset Boat Lifts.

Boat Lift Safety 

First and foremost, passengers should never be inside the watercraft while it is being raised or lowered. Also never let anyone be under a raised boat at anytime. Keep children away from the boat and lift while in operation. In order to not only keep yourself safe, but also your boat, it's important that you don't exceed the weight capacity of your lift. Keep in mind that the manufacturer weights do not include fuel and equipment. In addition, the published boat weights are dry weights, which is not always the same when the boat is wet. If you get a new boat that doesn't properly fit your current lift, contact the best boat lift dealer at the Lake of the Ozarks. We can hook you up with a brand new lift or often times, we can even modify the lift to fit your needs.  

Boat Dock Safety

Staying safe on the dock is just as important as staying safe while on the water. It's particularly important to pay close attention to children when on the dock. Make no running on the dock a rule and make sure children always have life jackets on when on the dock and around the water. Be sure to regularly inspect your dock's structure to make sure there are no weak spots or places that could cause injury to those on the dock. Look for areas that are splintering, any nails that might be sticking up, mold or moss that could be slippery, etc. You'll also want to ensure the electrical is installed properly to avoid shock in and out of the water. Proper lighting is needed on the dock to ensure safety at night.

If you haven't already, now's the time to have your boat lift at the Lake of the Ozarks inspected. Keeping your lift and dock maintained will decrease the likelihood of problems and injury. Summerset Boat Lifts is here for all your Lake of the Ozarks boat lift repair and maintenance needs, as well as for the sale of both new and used lifts. Give us a call at 573-348-5073 for more information.

Summerset Boat Lifts

1165 Jeffries Road Osage Beach, MO  65065

573-348-5073

Email:info@summersetboatlifts.com

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It's National Safe Boating Week!

National Safe Boating Week runs from May 16 - May 22, 2015! This campaign was created to spread the message of safe and responsible boating. With Memorial Day Weekend at the Lake upon us, now is the time to educate the boating community about life jackets and other safe boating practices. Your Lake of the Ozarks boat lift dealer wants to make sure you're safe on the water this summer!

Life Jacket Facts

Most boaters know that they are required to have a U.S. Coast Guard-approved wearable life jacket on board for every person in the boat. However, they often times don't get worn. Boating safety advocates recommend that all boaters and passengers not only have a life jacket, but also "WEAR IT" at all times while boating. Just like auto accidents, accidents on the water can happen all too fast to reach and put on a stowed life jacket. Drowning is the reported cause of death in 3/4 of all boating fatalities - and 84% of drowning victims in recreational boating accidents were not wearing a life jacket in 2014.

Life Jacket Styles

Today's life jackets are much more comfortable, lightweight and stylish than the bulky orange styles we're used to. Life jackets that use inflatable technologies are cool and comfortable. They may resemble a pair of suspenders or a belt pack, and many inflate automatically when immersed in water. There are life jacket styles available for almost any boating activity.

• Cruising - When cruising in an open motorboat, comfort is key! Choose a life jacket that you'll want to wear. For ages 16 and older, inflatable life jackets are a great option. 
• Fishing - Vest-style life jackets come with features such as pockets and clips to replace the fishing vest and keep the angler safe. 
• PWC and Water Sports - Inherently buoyant lighter-weight life jackets are rugged, with multiple buckles and clasps to keep them secure after impact with the water. 
• Hunting & Cold Weather - Full coats and suits are available in camouflage colors for waterfowl hunting and for thsoe who boat when air and water temperatures are cool. 
• Paddling - Special life jackets are designed with large openings for arms to allow ease of movement. 
• Children - Virtually all styles available are sized especially for children. Some even have cartoon characters, straps for pulling children from the water and high-visibility schemes. 
• Pets - Life jackets are even available for our four-legged friends. It's helpful to purchase one with a handle on top to easily pull your pet  out of the water if needed. 

Choosing the Right Life Jacket 

While today's life jackets come in a variety of shapes, sizes, colors and materials, it is important to make sure the one you choose is right for you, your planned activities and the water conditions you expect to encounter. Follow these steps for trying on a life jacket before you choose it:

1. Check the manufacturer’s ratings for your size and weight.
2. Make sure the life jacket is properly zipped or buckled.
3. Raise your arms straight up over your head while wearing your life jacket & ask a friend to grasp the tops of the arm openings, gently pulling up. 
4. If there is excess room above the openings and the life jacket rides up over your chin or face, it does NOT fit properly. A snug fit in these areas signals a properly fitting life jacket.

Fit Facts 

• It is extremely important that you choose a properly fitting life jacket.
• Life jackets that are too big will cause the flotation device to push up around your face, which could be dangerous.
• Life jackets that are too small may not be able to keep your body afloat. 

Important Reminders

• Make sure your life jacket is U.S. Coast Guard approved.
• Double check that your life jacket is appropriate for your favorite water activities. Read the label!
• Take the time to ensure a proper fit. A life jacket that is too large or too small can cause different situational problems.
• Check your life jacket is in good serviceable condition, with no tears or holes. Test to make sure it works properly.
• Life jackets meant for adult sized people do not work for children. If you are boating with children, make sure they are wearing properly fitted, child-sized life jackets based on their weight. Do not buy a life jacket for your child to “grow into.”

General Boating Safety Tips

1. No matter what activity you have planned – boating, fishing, paddling and more – always remember to wear a life jacket every time you are on the water. Accidents on the water can happen much too fast to reach and put on a stowed life jacket. 
2. Make sure your life jacket is U.S. Coast Guard approved, appropriate for your water activity, and that it fits properly. A life jacket that is too large or too small can cause different situational problems. All persons should always wear a life jacket.
3. Know your state’s boating laws before you get out on the water. Rules and laws can differ from state to state and violations can result in ticketing, fines or jail time.
4. Take a boating safety course. Learn valuable tips that can help save your life in unexpected situations by taking a NASBLA (National Association of Boating Law Administrators) approved boating safety course.
5. Make sure your boat is as prepared as you are. There are many items that need to be checked and re-checked on any boat. Schedule a Vessel Safety Check with your local U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary or U.S. Power Squadrons before you hit the water.
6. Boat capacity. Be sure to know your boat’s capacity. If you have more on your boat than it was designed to handle, the boat may become unstable and capsize. 
7. Check the weather. Know the latest marine weather forecast prior to going out, and keep a regular check for changing conditions.
8. Dress properly. Always dress for the weather, wearing layers if cooler weather, and bring an extra set of clothes in case you get wet.
9. Always file a float plan. File a float plan with someone you trust that includes details about the trip, boat, persons, towing or trailer vehicle, communication equipment, and emergency contacts. Find out more at floatplancentral.org.
10. Always follow navigation rules. Know the ‘Rules of the Road’ such as operator's responsibility, maintaining a proper lookout, safe speed, crossing, meeting head-on and overtaking situations. Find out more at boatoncourse.com. 
11. Don’t drink while you boat. Where the primary cause was known, alcohol was listed as the leading factor in 21% of deaths in 2014. Find out more at operationdrywater.org.
12. Beware of carbon monoxide poisoning. Gasoline-powered engines on boats, including onboard generators, produce carbon monoxide (CO), a colorless and odorless gas that can poison or kill someone who breathes too much of it. Be sure to install and maintain a working CO detector, never block exhaust outlets, and always dock, beach or anchor at least 20 feet away from the nearest boat that is running a generator or engine.
13. Keep in touch. Communication devices can be the most important piece of emergency equipment on board a vessel, especially in case of emergency. Cell phones, satellite phones, emergency position indicating radio beacons, VHF radios and personal locator beacons can all contribute in an emergency situation. 

For more information on the North American Safe Boating Campaign, please visit: www.SafeBoatingCampaign.com.

Have a fun and safe boating season and remember to WEAR IT! While you're out on the water this holiday weekend, keep Summerset Boat Lifts in mind for all your Lake of the Ozarks boat lift service needs. Give us a call at 573-348-5073 and be suprised at how soon you'll see a representative of Summerset Boat Lifts on your dock. We want to earn your trust and your business!

Summerset Boat Lifts

1165 Jeffries Road Osage Beach, MO  65065

573-348-5073

Email:info@summersetboatlifts.com

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Be Safe Out on the Water this Memorial Day Weekend!

Memorial Day Weekend marks the start of Boating Season and Summerset Boat Lifts is here to help you with all your boat lift needs!  Everyone is excited to get out on the water and celebrate, but remember to take safety precautions. Operator inexperience, inattention, recklessness and speeding are the four leading causes of tragic watercraft crashes and drowning is the leading cause of death.  Crash statistics show that those who wear life jackets and take boater safety courses are more likely to stay safe on the water!  We wanted to provide you with the some basic boating safety tips to help keep you safe this holiday weekend. 

1. Leave the Alcohol Onshore

Never use drugs or alcohol before or during boat operation.  Alcohol's effects are greatly exaggerated by exposure to sun, glare, wind, noise and vibration.  Yes, Memorial Day Weekend is a time for celebration, but save the alcohol for when you get back and crank up the BBQ Grill.  If you must bring it on board with you, be sure to have a designated captain.    

2. Be Weather Wise

Although we are all hoping for some great weather this Memorial Day Weekend, it never fails that we get some rain when we are trying to have some fun outdoors.  Be sure to check the weather before you head out and keep an eye on the weather while you are out on the water.  It would also be a good idea to bring a radio on board with you.  Sudden wind shifts, lightning flashes and choppy water all can mean a storm in brewing.  If bad weather is approaching, get off the water as quickly as possible to keep safe.  You don't want to be out in the middle of the Lake when a storm hits.

3. Use and Maintain the Right Safety Equipment

Have a US Coast Guard approved life jacket for each person on board and one approved throwable device.  It is suggested that everyone where their life jackets while on the water.  Be sure to have a fire extinguiser on board and make sure all the boat lights are operating correctly. Even if you are going out in daylight, you never know what could happen and you could be stuck on the water after dark.  You also should keep an emergency supplies kit in a floating pouch on board.  This should include a cell phone, maps, flares and a first aid kit.  

4. Follow a Checklist Before Heading Out

Start by letting someone know where you are going and when you will be returning. Open all the hatches and run the blower before you take off and after you refuel. Sniff for fumes before starting the engine and if you smell some, do not start the engine. Check for any local regulations that you will need to follow.  

5. Don't Overload the Boat 

Overloading a boat with gear or passengers will make the boat unstable and increase the risk of capsizing or swamping.  Abide by the boats capacity plate which is located near the boat operators position.  

6. Follow the Rules 

Never allow passengers to ride on gunwales, seat backs or outside of the protective railings, including the front of a pontoon boat.  A sudden turn, stop, start or wave could cause them to fall overboard.  After leaving the boat launch or boat lift at the Lake of the Ozarks maintain slow, no-wake speed for a safe and legal distance from the launch.  Be sure to follow all boat traffic rules as well.  Just like on the road, abiding by traffic rules will help keep your group safe out on the water.  

While you're out on the water this weekend, make sure that not only is your boat working properly, but also that your Lake of the Ozarks boat lift is also in proper working condition.  If you have a problem with your lift, give us a call!  You'll be surprised at how soon you may see a representative of Summerset Boat Lifts on your dock.  We want to earn your trust and your business!

Tips adapted from the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources Website. 

Summerset Boat Lifts

1165 Jeffries Road Osage Beach, MO  65065

573-348-5073
Email:info@summersetboatlifts.com

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