Most Important Rule: Wear Coast Guard approved life jackets when around water. Most people do not expect to end up in the water, and of those who drown, were not wearing a life jacket.

Essential Water Safety Rules

Life Jacket First: Always wear a U.S. Coast Guard approved life jacket when around water
No Alcohol: Water and alcohol do not mix - impaired judgment leads to accidents
Weather Awareness: Check weather forecasts before embarking on water activities
Know Your Limits: Be aware of your personal water skills and knowledge
Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water, especially on hot days
Sun Protection: Use sunscreen, wear hats, and seek shade regularly

Remember: Most drowning victims are strong swimmers who were not wearing life jackets. Don't let confidence replace caution.

Boating Safety

Critical safety guidelines for recreational boating and watercraft operation

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Pre-Departure Safety Checklist

Life Jackets: Ensure Coast Guard approved life jackets for every person on board
Safety Equipment: Check all safety equipment, replace and repair before launching
Float Plan: File a float plan with family and friends - tell them where you're going and when you'll return
Weather Check: Verify current and forecasted weather conditions
Fuel and Oil: Check fuel levels and engine fluids
Communication: Carry a working VHF radio or cell phone in waterproof case

On-Water Safety Rules

Courteous Boating: Be a courteous boater and follow the rules of the road
Safe Speed: Operate at safe speeds for conditions and traffic
Lookout: Maintain a proper lookout at all times
Right of Way: Understand and follow navigation rules
Avoid Overloading: Don't exceed your boat's capacity rating

Carbon Monoxide Danger: Swimming near or under platforms on outboard motorboats, where CO (carbon monoxide) fumes accumulate, can kill. Never swim near running engines.

Required Equipment: Fire extinguisher, sound signaling device, visual distress signals (for boats 16+ feet), and navigation lights for night operation.

Swimming Safety

Safe swimming practices for lakes, rivers, and designated swimming areas

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Swimming Safety Guidelines

Life Jacket Protection: Wear a Coast Guard approved life jacket - many comfortable types and styles are available
Learn to Swim: Learning to swim is an important skill for all ages
Buddy System: Never swim alone - always swim with a buddy
Designated Areas: Always swim in designated swimming areas only
Child Supervision: Always supervise children of all ages when around open bodies of water
Know the Water: Be aware of currents, depth changes, and underwater hazards

Dangerous Activities to Avoid

No Cliff Jumping: Diving or jumping from cliffs and bluffs invites tragedy
No Diving in Shallow Water: Always check water depth before diving
Avoid Swimming Near Dams: Stay away from dam structures and spillways
No Swimming in Marinas: Avoid swimming in boat traffic areas

Hidden Dangers: Lakes may have submerged objects, sudden depth changes, and cold water layers. Even experienced swimmers can get into trouble quickly.

Swimming Lessons Available: Contact your local Red Cross chapter or YMCA for swimming lessons and water safety courses for all ages.

Life Jacket Information

Types, fitting, and availability of Coast Guard approved life jackets

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Types of Life Jackets

Type I (Offshore): Best for rough or remote waters where rescue may be delayed
Type II (Near Shore): Good for calm waters with quick rescue expected
Type III (Flotation Aid): Most comfortable for water sports and general boating
Type IV (Throwable): Cushions and ring buoys for emergency throwing
Type V (Special Use): Designed for specific activities like kayaking or windsurfing

Proper Fit and Use

Size Matters: Choose the right size based on weight and chest measurement
Snug Fit: Life jacket should fit snugly but not restrict breathing or movement
Test the Fit: Lift arms overhead - jacket should not ride up over chin or face
Check Regularly: Inspect for tears, holes, or waterlogged foam
Replace When Needed: Replace damaged or worn life jackets immediately

Life Jacket Loaner Program: Many Corps of Engineers locations offer free life jacket loaner programs. Check with your local park or marina for availability.

Always Coast Guard Approved

Proper Size Essential

Wear It - Don't Store It

Weather & Environmental Hazards

Understanding weather patterns and environmental dangers on the water

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Weather Hazards

Thunderstorms: Can develop quickly and create dangerous conditions
High Winds: Can create large waves and make boat handling difficult
Fog: Reduces visibility and increases collision risk
Temperature Extremes: Cold water can cause hypothermia even in warm weather
Flash Floods: Heavy rains can cause rapid water level and current changes

Environmental Dangers

Submerged Objects: Logs, rocks, and debris can damage boats or injure swimmers
Changing Water Levels: Lake levels can change due to dam operations
Strong Currents: Particularly dangerous near dams and spillways
Cold Water Shock: Sudden immersion in cold water can cause gasping and disorientation
Blue-Green Algae: Can cause illness if water is ingested during blooms

When to Head for Shore: If you see lightning, hear thunder, notice darkening skies, or feel sudden wind changes, head for shore immediately. Lightning can strike water and boats.

Weather Resources: Monitor NOAA Weather Radio, weather apps, or local forecasts before and during water activities.

Emergency Procedures

What to do in water emergencies and how to get help quickly

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🚨 CALL 911 FOR ALL WATER EMERGENCIES 🚨

If Someone is Drowning

Call 911 First: Always call for professional help immediately
Reach or Throw: Try to reach the person with a pole or throw a flotation device
Don't Go In: Only trained rescuers should enter the water
Row if Available: Use a boat to reach the victim if you're trained
Last Resort: Swimming rescue should only be attempted by trained lifeguards

Boat Emergencies

Engine Failure: Drop anchor, call for help using VHF radio or cell phone
Taking on Water: Use bilge pump, assign someone to bail, head for nearest shore
Fire: Use fire extinguisher, call Coast Guard or 911
Person Overboard: Keep eyes on person, throw flotation, turn boat around carefully

Hypothermia Signs

Early Signs: Shivering, loss of dexterity, confusion
Advanced Signs: Violent shivering stops, muscle rigidity, unconsciousness
Treatment: Get person out of water, remove wet clothes, warm gradually
Seek Medical Help: Always get medical attention for hypothermia

Emergency Contacts: Program local emergency numbers into your phone and carry them in waterproof case. Know your location - use GPS coordinates or landmarks.

Navigation Buoy Identification

Understanding buoy colors, shapes, and meanings is essential for safe navigation

Remember: Red-Right-Returning means keep red buoys on your right (starboard) side when returning to port. Green buoys should be on your left (port) side.

Water Safety Resources & Information

Arkansas Game and Fish Boating Information

Missouri Boating Laws and Regulations

Life Jacket Loaner Locations

U.S. Coast Guard Boating Safety

NOAA Marine Weather Forecasts

Red Cross Swimming & Water Safety

Little Rock District Recreation

Life Jackets

Weather Check

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Emergency

General Water Safety