I'm On A Boat!

Summer will be here in no time.  I’m sure we will all be searching for fun places to cool down because Texas summers are typically VERY HOT. So hot that most of the time I don’t want to go outside.  If you have kids, you know that they are going to get bored fast so staying inside usually isn’t an option.

So what are some fun activities that can be done outside without fear of melting in the Texas heat? Swimming, waterparks, slip and slides, or even just spraying your kids down with a water hose are some of the ideas that I can think of. Just remember… If you are spraying your kids down with a water hose, let the water run for a little bit before you spray them.  That water can be pretty hot when you first turn it on during the summertime months.

With all the rain we've had this year most of the lakes water levels are back up so if you have a boat, the possibilities are endless! Waterskiing, swimming, tubing, knee boarding, fishing and whatever else you can think of when you have a boat.  Whatever else that keeps everyone out of harms way, that is. It’s all fun and games until someone gets hurt so before you get that boat out on the water make sure you have checked your boat out and that you have all that is needed on the boat, in case of an emergency.

Knowing and following the rules and laws while out on your boat is something everyone should practice. Though it is the responsibility of the driver, it wouldn’t hurt to educate those on your boat as well. To learn more about boat rules and safety, Texas Parks & Wildlife offers a Boat Safety course to teach you what you need to know before you head out on the water. And just so you know, taking a safety course on boating could make you eligible for a discount on your insurance.

According to the Texas Parks & Wildlife, 70% of people who were killed in a boating accident would have survived if they had just worn a life jacket. It’s not only important to wear a lifejacket or Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs), it’s also very important to have the correct size PFD. There are different sizes for different weights and different types for different vessels. For more information on the different types of PFD and what type you need for your boat check out the Texas Parks & Wildlife.

Besides a PFD, other necessities you need to keep on your boat are things like a throwable personal floatation device, extra paddle or oar, fire extinguisher, flares, whistles or an air horn, and something you can put all your passengers in if your boat sinks. If possible, call for help on your cell phone.  One or all passengers will likely have their cell phones with them for selfies on the boat.   One item to not bring on the boat is alcohol. Alcohol and driving on land or water is never a good idea.

For more information on boating safety, the Texas Parks & Wildlife site is a great place to start. Whether it’s boating, hunting, fishing or anything outdoorsy, you should find your answers there.

Well that's a different way to put a boat in the water...