How to Boat Safely

Our family enjoyed a family reunion at Lake McConaughy, spending several days eating, catching-up with each other's lives, swimming and boating. Tuesday began warm and sunny and was the perfect day to be on the lake. Many of us piled onto the tri-toon boat we rented. Several also rented a jet ski for a more exciting ride, though those on the ski were told to stay within site of the boat.

The air was warm, but the lake water was still very cold as we headed around the lake for a look at the dam. Suddenly, those on the jet-ski hailed us. "There's a guy hanging onto a sinking jet ski. He needs help!"

We headed to the rescue. As we pulled the jet-ski toward shore, we came upon another young man treading water. He'd also been on the jet-ski. We hauled him on board and gave him a towel.

Both riders seemed a bit confused. They couldn't tell us where they started from, who owned the boat or even how long they'd been in the water. We called our resort. They would have called the place where the young men had rented the jet-ski, but it turned out they'd gotten it from a friend. The jet-ski hadn't been used in sometime, hadn't been checked out, and both seemed inexperienced. We got their jet-ski beached and finally returned them safely to their point of origin.

But, there were no patrols on the lake and if we hadn't come along, who knows how long they would have been in the lake. Later in the day, a nasty storm brewed up. What then? Would the lake been, eventually, dragged for bodies?

Out on the lake, I learned some important lessons.

1. Never go out on the lake without letting someone know where you'll be and a time frame for when you plan to return.

2. Know your location so you can convey the information if needed to someone else, in order to get back.

3. Also carry ID and a cell phone. There are small waterproof cases you can hang around your neck.

4. Make sure the water vehicle you plan to use is fit for water duty. If it is borrowed, have it checked out and make sure it contains sufficient fuel. Better, yet, rent from a reliable source that you can contact in case of trouble. Be sure to carry a number along for the owner of the vehicle, the rental place or someone you can call in case you have problems.

6. The smaller the vehicle, the higher the need to know at least the basics of swimming.

7, Finally, when in doubt-play it safe.

Yes, we rescued these young men, but the outcome could have been much different. How much better to take precautions so your loved ones don't get that dreaded call, "They're missing."