Play It Safe

When the weather heats up in Central Texas, the Highland Lakes are the place to be.

But too often a fun day on the water ends tragically. Drownings, boating injuries and boating accidents can happen in an instant. Many accidents can be prevented just by using good judgment and playing it safe.

Whether it's swimming, boating or on a personal watercraft…when you hit the water this summer have fun, but don't forget to be safe so you can come back and enjoy the lake again.

Read and follow these safety tips while you're out having fun.

1. Never swim alone. Most drowning victims don't yell for help; they panic and slip quietly under water. Ask friends and family to keep an eye on one another in and around the water and learn to recognize the signs of someone in trouble. Read more.
2. Always wear a life jacket. These days they come in just about every style and color....AND…they float, even when you don't. Read more.
3. Know the rules of the road. A boater education class can bring you up to speed on the latest boating laws and rules in Texas. They're only $13 and take about six hours to complete. And they may save you money on boat insurance. Read more.
4. Boat safely. Know where you are on the water and be aware of your surroundings at all times. Know how to read and follow buoy signs. Read more.
5. Many drowning accidents involve alcohol, which affects your coordination and judgment - even more so when you're boating or swimming. Try to avoid drinking alcohol on the water. If you do drink, do so responsibly. Designate a sober boat operator and keep an eye on those who are drinking. You should always drink plenty of water to stay hydrated - especially when drinking alcohol.
6. Have proper equipment onboard. Make sure it works correctly and it's readily accessible! Some equipment is required by state law. Read more.
7. Use sunscreen . Being called "Lobster Boy" can get old fast. Plus it hurts – the sunburn, that is. And Devil's Cove is far more painful without it.

DRUGS AND ALCOHOL

It's illegal in Texas to operate a boat while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. You should know what you're risking if you choose to operate a boat under the influence.

• The penalties for boating under the influence (BUI) can include large fines, revocation of operator privileges and serious jail time.
• Alcohol is involved in about a third of all recreational boating fatalities.
• A boat operator is likely to become impaired more quickly than a driver on land, drink for drink. The marine environment – motion, vibration, engine noise, sun, wind and spray – accelerates a drinker's impairment. These stressors cause fatigue and a boat operator's coordination, judgment and reaction time decline even faster when using alcohol.
• Most recreational boaters don't operate a boat every day and are less experienced and less confident on the water than on the highway.

Source: U.S. Coast Guard