Safety on the lake.
Safety Tips.
1. Check condition of boat and equipment, hull, engine, fuel, tools, torch.
2. Check the weather forecast for the area.
3. Check locally concerning dangerous currents, submerged rocks etc.
4. Do not drink alcohol while setting out or during your trip
5. Carry an alternative means of propulsion e.g. sails and oars or motor and oars
6. Carry a first aid kit on board and distress signals (at least two parachute distress rockets, two red hand flares)
7. Carry a fire extinguisher, a hand bailer or bucket with lanyard and an anchor with rope attached.
8. Carry marine radio or some means of communication with shore.
9. Do not overload the boat - this will make it unstable.
10. Do not set out unless accompanied by an experienced person.
11. Leave details of your planned trip with someone ashore - including departure and arrival times, description of boat, names of persons on board, etc.
12. Wear a lifejacket at all times
13. Keep an eye on the weather - seek shelter in good time.
14. In Marine Emergencies, call 999 or 112 and ask for Coast Guard.