When those hot temperatures hit, nothing beats a day out on the water—boating, swimming, fishing, canoeing, kayaking or even paddleboarding at your go-to lake. But before you head out with the kids in tow, it’s important consider the risks—there were 34 reported fatalities and 201 reported accidents related to boating in Texas for 2022, according to the National Safe Boating Council’s Safe Boating Campaign. And given those stats, here are lake safety tips parents should keep in mind when boating with kids.
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1. Take a boater education course.
Anyone born on or after Sept. 1, 1993 must complete a boater education course to operate a personal watercraft (like a jet ski) or boat with a horsepower rating of more than 15, says Texas Parks & Wildlife Department (TPWD), but it’s a good idea for anyone who plans to operate a boat to enroll. After all, it’s easy to take an online boater education course (they start at $11 for a basic course), and you’ll be better prepared for your day on the water. Boater education courses will typically teach you the necessary safety equipment, navigation rules, how to operate your boat and state laws for boating.
2. Leave alcohol on the shore.
While open containers on boats are legal, operators are subject to boating-while-intoxicated laws, similar to driving a vehicle, according to TPWD. Plus, drinking and boating is dangerous and the leading contributing factor in fatal boating accidents. Alcohol impairs your balance and coordination, which are essential for boating and avoiding hazards in the water, says the National Drowning Prevention Alliance (NDPA). And you wouldn’t want to put yourself or your little ones at unnecessary risk.
3. Operate your boat at a safe speed.
While there are technically no numeral speed limits on open water, citations may be issued for excessive speed or reckless operation. The TPWD advises boaters to use common sense and operate at a safe speed at all times, especially in crowded areas.
4. Swim away from other boats.
If you choose to swim in the lake where there’s boating activity, make sure your kiddos stay at least 10 feet from the sides or back (stern) of a boat, whether it’s anchored or moving, to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning, advises NDPA. And never allow swimming underneath a motorized catamaran or pontoon boat, whether anchored or moving. It’s also best to ensure kids stay away from propellers, even when the boat is off and anchored, to prevent potential injury.
5. Designate an adult to keep an eye on the kiddos.
Just as you would designate a water watcher when the kids are swimming, make sure one adult on the boat is the designated kid watcher. This means the adult should keep an eye on the kids aboard the vessel and (ideally) be within arm’s reach. This designated person should be someone other than the boat operator. That way, if anything were to happen, immediate action can be taken.
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6. Wear a life jacket or personal flotation device.
While Texas law only requires children ages 13 and younger to wear U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets at all times when aboard an underway vessel that is less than 26 feet long, it’s a good idea for everyone aboard to wear one. After all, kids are more likely to do what parents and older siblings model.
If anyone older than 13 chooses not to wear a life jacket, remember: All vessels—including canoes, kayaks, sail boats and motor boats—must have at least one USCG-approved PFD (Type I, II, II or V) on board. Plus, vessels that are 16 feet or longer (except for canoes and kayaks) must have one USCG-approved throwable device on board that is accessible, according to TPWD.
7. Ensure kids know how to swim.
While life jackets are one layer of safety when boating, enrolling kids in swimming lessons and water safety courses are another layer of water safety. In fact, “learning to swim can reduce the risk of drowning by 88% for 1- to 4-year-olds who take formal swim lessons,” according to the NDPA.
8. Protect your skin.
In addition to knowing and practicing these boat safety tips, it’s important to protect your skin from the sun. The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) recommends most everyone use sunscreen that’s SPF 30 or higher, broad-spectrum protection and water resistant. Apply your first layer 15 minutes before you go outside and then reapply every 2 hours or after swimming or sweating.
The exception is for babies younger than 6 months. For that age group, AAD recommends avoiding sunscreen and keeping them in the shade as much as possible.
In addition to sunscreen, the AAD offers the following tips for added protection:
- Seek shade during the hours of 10am–2pm, when the sun’s rays are strongest.
- Wear sun-protective clothing, such as lightweight or UPF long-sleeved shirts and pants, wide-brimmed hats, and sunglasses.
- Use extra caution when near water. It reflects the damaging sun rays and can increase your chance of sunburn.
9. Have a plan for emergencies.
As with any family adventure on or near water, it’s a good idea for all people of appropriate age to learn CPR and water rescue skills. Find a certification course near you through the Red Cross, American Heart Association (in-person or virtual) or through your local YMCA.
In addition, it’s recommended that groups going out on the water let someone on shore know of their boating plan (planned route and return time), whether it’s a family member, friend or someone at the marina or boat rental place.
For more specific boat safety regulations and rules, take a closer look through the 2022 Handbook of Texas Boating Laws and Responsibilities.
Top image: iStock
