Summer is a time when people go out to the lakes to take in some summer sun and get out on the water.
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers says it is also a good time to brush up on some of the rules and items that are required for responsible boating.
According to Barren River Lake Park Ranger, Alisha Wyatt, there are some specific items they look for when conducting vessel inspections out on the water.
Wyatt said always make sure that you have a life jacket for everybody on board. Always make sure that you have a type 4 throwable, a fire extinguisher that is charged up and ready to go, and also a sound device.
She also said the most important item to have on board is a properly fitting life jacket, which is required to be worn by anyone under the age of 12.
When it comes to finding a life jacket that fits, Wyatt said if you pull up on the life jacket and it goes over your ears, it is too big for you.
Another thing to look out for when boating is debris. According to Wyatt, increased rain can raise water levels and cause unseen hazards that can cause damage to boats or people.
The best advice Wyatt said she could give though was a catchphrase that she said the Army Corps of Engineers regularly use: life jackets worn, nobody mourns.
Source: WBKO
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