Boating is a feeling like no other. There’s nothing like sitting in the driver’s seat and owning the open water. At Boating Lake Mead, we know the key to having the best experience while boating is to always prioritize safety. We’ve compiled this list of ten boating tips for beginners to reference any time they’re headed to Lake Mead.
Water Safety Tips For New Boaters
1. Prepare While Off the Water
Before you rent or take your own boat onto Lake Mead, it’s a good idea to enroll in any additional boater-safety training courses you can. You can never learn too much, and extra classes could provide you with useful information you’ll use for years.
2. Always Wear a Life Jacket
Every individual on your boat, adults and children alike, should always wear a life jacket when on the boat. This is a Nevada law. Even in shallower waters on a clear day, there is always a danger of accidentally falling overboard.
3. Never Boat Without a License and Registration
All boaters in Nevada must be licensed, registered and issued a Nevada Certificate of Number to operate a boat in-state. You should never operate a vessel on the water if your license or registration is no longer valid.
4. Always Boat with an Experienced Boater
While you will one day be the captain of your own vessel, we always suggest beginning boaters go on their first few excursions with an experienced boater. They can give you advice and help guide you through new situations as they arise, so you build confidence and comfortability on the water.
5. Avoid Unpredictable Conditions
Ideally, you should only take the boat out onto the water during the day time when the weather reports cloud-free skies. You should also have at least one other adult on the boat with you. Remain cautious and avoid the water when visibility and weather conditions are not optimal.
6. Dress Appropriately
Always dress in layers, and it might be a good idea to bring a change of clothes with you in case the clothes you’re wearing get wet. By dressing in layers, you can be prepared for various temperatures.
7. Keep Necessities on Board
Be prepared for emergencies by keeping extra resources on board, such as food, fresh water, tools, a life vest, spare parts, a first aid kit, and extra fuel.
8. Leave a Float Plan
A float plan is a document left on-shore that details where you’ll be boating, who you’re with, and when you plan to return. In the event you get stuck or some other emergency occurs, a trusted friend or family member with your float plan could save your life.
9. Always Boat Responsibly
Never operate a boat under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
10. Be Respectful of Fellow Boaters
Another element of responsible boating is to be aware of your fellow boaters both on and off the water. You should load your boat before you’re on the ramp, and try to disembark quickly. Don’t rush when trying to dock, and watch your speed around other boaters on the water.
Visit Boating Lake Mead Today!
Whether you’re looking to rent or buy a boat, schedule boat maintenance or simply have fun by the water with family and friends, Boating Lake Mead has you covered. Contact us today for information on upcoming events, our boat inventory, boat rentals and more!
