Safety Tips While On and Off the Lake
Spending time by the lake is one of the most simple, yet traditional activities at Lake Anna and is a great way to get the family and friends together. It should be a relaxing and rejuvenating experience, where you can lounge in the sun, play games with the kids, have a cookout and be thankful that all of your worries were left at home.
Lake Anna offers plenty of recreational water activities for the afternoon as well, including boating, jet skiing and grilling. But while you are letting loose, be sure to remember that there are still important safety rules to be aware of while on and off the water. By keeping safety in mind, you, your family and friends will all have a fun and safe vacation that is remembered for all the right reasons.
Drowning may be one of the most obvious, yet most important dangers of lake safety hazards. Lake water tends to rapidly change and switch flows without warning, so it is important to be aware of where you are swimming and just how deep the water is.
Underwater Hazards
Unfortunately, there are other types of hazards to be aware of while vacationing on the lake. Broken shells, fishing hooks, sharp metal, or broken glass from boat accidents may be residing at the bottom and around the lake, which can easily cause minor or serious lacerations. With this in mind, it would be best to wear water shoes while standing in the lake or hanging out on the dock.
Be Cautious of the Weather
Be sure to check the weather before heading out on the lake. By doing so, you can plan your day accordingly and feel safe knowing what the day is going to bring.
Pay Attention to Your Surroundings
While out on the water, be mindful of other boats passing by. The wake caused by a boat going high speed can create powerful wakes that can impact your own boat. Slow down while passing others and approach the wake at a 45-degree angle to avoid anyone getting hurt. While boating, be sure to keep an eye out for any rules or regulation signs. These will not only keep the Lake Anna Civic Association’s Emergency Service Committee and residents at ease, but you will thank yourself as well.
Children Safety Tips
•Always have an adult nearby while children are swimming or playing by the lake.
•Children should wear a life jacket while in the water and riding on motor-powered vehicles.
•Allow children to swim in designated swimming areas only.
•If a child is struggling in the water, toss him or her a floating device instead of helping them yourself.
•Only allow those ages 16 or older to operate a motor-powered vehicle.
•Dress your child in bright colors so he or she can easily be spotted.
Grilling Safety Tips
•Propane and charcoal should only be used outdoors.
•Keep your grill clean by removing any grease built up from previous usage.
•If you are grilling out at the lake house, place the grill as far away from your house as possible and keep away from children and pets.
• Never leave the grill unattended.
•Make sure the gas grill lid is open before lighting it.
•Bacteria grows at any temperatures above freezing and stays alive until about 65 degrees. Keep your food chilled until it hits the grill, and keep it covered!
Pet Safety Tips
•Look out for blue-green algae—it can be very dangerous for your pup and yourself.
•If your dog is out swimming, make sure there is a plan in place to get him or her back on land.
•Run-off drainage can make its way into the lake, so don’t let your pup drink the water.
•If you are not by the lake, keep your pet on a leash.
•Dry your pooch off after a swim so there is no unwanted bacteria on his or her fur.
Dockside Do’s and Don’ts
•Neatly coil loose or excess lines both on and off the deck to ensure no one trips over them.
•Never connect a dock water supply to the pressure side of the water system on the boat—it may cause it to sink.
•Make sure electrical connections are properly installed and safely maintained.
•Just because you are on the dock doesn’t mean you can’t accidentally fall or be pushed off, so continue to wear your life vest at all times until you are off the dock.
•When climbing on and off the boat with an armload of provisions for the day, be aware of your surroundings when you stretch for that first step.
