Posted by: Hanna_Alldrin on 08/29/2008 02:33 PM
Updated by: thepinetree on 06/18/2010 11:16 AM
Expires: 01/01/2013 12:00 AM
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Are You Going Boating During Labor Day Weekend? ~By Hanna Alldrin
Angels Camp, CA..... Boaters are sure to flood New Melones Lake this Labor Day Holiday weekend, bringing the summer boating season to an unofficial end. Labor Day Weekend is one of the most busiest weekends of the year for camping and boating enthusiasts at Melones. With decreasing water levels and increasing boating crowds, boaters should be on the lookout for such obstructions as trees, debris and land areas that normally are well under the water’s surface........
If you do choose to participate in recreational boating this Labor Day weekend, please follow basic rules of safety on the waterways. "Everyone should read the water safety handbook that you receive from the DMV," shared Victor Vierira. Boaters should wear a lifejacket that fits properly, avoid alcohol consumption when on the boat, keep a lookout for people and objects in the water.
6 boating safety tips from the American Red Cross
Boating Safety
1. Learn to swim. The best thing anyone can do to stay safe in and around the water is to learn to swim. This includes anyone participating in any boating activity.
2. Alcohol and boating don't mix. Alcohol impairs your judgment, balance, and coordination -- over 50 percent of drownings result from boating incidents involving alcohol. For the same reasons it is dangerous to operate an automobile while under the influence of alcohol, people should not operate a boat while drinking alcohol.
3. Look for the label: Use Coast Guard-approved life jackets for yourself and your passengers when boating and fishing.
4. Develop a float plan. Anytime you go out in a boat, give a responsible person details about where you will be and how long you will be gone. This is important because if the boat is delayed because of an emergency, becomes lost, or encounters other problems, you want help to be able to reach you.
5. Find a boating course in your area (U.S. Power Squadron, the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, US Sailing, etc) -- these courses teach about navigation rules, emergency procedures and the effects of wind, water conditions, and weather.
6. Watch the weather: Know local weather conditions and prepare for electrical storms. Watch local news programs. Stop boating as soon as you see or hear a storm.
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