Wear a Life Jacket: Always wear a properly fitted life jacket while on the water. Life jackets can save lives in emergencies and are legally required. Make sure everyone on board wears one, especially children.

Check Weather Conditions: Monitor the weather before heading out and be prepared for sudden changes. Bad weather can create dangerous conditions on the lake. Postpone your trip if severe weather is forecasted.

Boat Capacity: Do not exceed the boat's weight capacity as indicated by the manufacturer. Overloading your boat can lead to capsizing or swamping. Ensure passengers and equipment are evenly distributed.

Safety Equipment: Have essential safety equipment on board, such as a fire extinguisher, flares, and a first aid kit. Regularly check that all equipment is in working order. This gear can be crucial in emergencies.

Float Plan: Inform someone of your boating plan and expected return time. This helps rescuers locate you in case of an emergency. Share your route and contact information with a trusted person.

Avoid Alcohol: Do not consume alcohol while operating a boat. Alcohol impairs judgment and reaction times, increasing the risk of accidents. Boating under the influence is illegal and dangerous.

Navigation Lights: Ensure navigation lights are functional, especially for night boating. Proper lighting helps prevent collisions by making your boat visible. Check and maintain your lights regularly.

Proper Mooring: Securely moor your boat when not in use to prevent it from drifting away. Use appropriate lines and knots to keep your boat in place. Check moorings regularly to ensure they remain secure.

Respect Right of Way: Follow the rules of navigation and give way where required to avoid collisions. Know the "give-way" and "stand-on" vessel rules. Respect other boaters' rights and space.

Keep a Lookout: Always be aware of your surroundings by keeping a constant lookout. Watch for other boats, swimmers, and obstacles. Vigilance helps prevent accidents.

Slow No Wake: Obey "no wake" zones to prevent shoreline erosion and ensure safety. High speeds near shore can cause damage and endanger others. Reduce speed and navigate cautiously in these areas.

Stay Clear of Swimmers: Maintain a safe distance from designated swimming areas. Propellers can cause serious injuries to swimmers. Always be vigilant for people in the water.

Anchor Properly: Use a proper anchor and understand how to deploy it correctly. An improperly set anchor can lead to drifting. Ensure your anchor is suitable for the lake’s bottom conditions.

Avoid Overloading: Do not overload the boat with passengers or gear. Exceeding capacity can make the boat unstable and increase the risk of capsizing. Distribute weight evenly for better stability.

Check Engine and Fuel: Regularly check the engine and ensure you have enough fuel for your trip. Running out of fuel can leave you stranded on the lake. Perform routine maintenance to avoid breakdowns.

Emergency Procedures: Familiarize yourself with emergency procedures and signals. Know how to call for help and what to do in various emergencies. Practice these procedures with your passengers.

Use Kill Switch Lanyard: Use a kill switch lanyard to prevent accidents if you fall overboard. This device stops the engine if the operator is ejected. It can be a lifesaver in emergencies.

Be Aware of Water Levels: Pay attention to changing water levels and hazards. Low water levels can expose rocks and other dangers. Stay informed about lake conditions.

Stay Hydrated: Bring sufficient water and stay hydrated, especially on hot days. Dehydration can impair your judgment and physical abilities. Keep water accessible and encourage everyone to drink regularly.

Boating Education: Complete a boating safety course to learn essential skills and regulations. Education can prevent accidents and improve safety for everyone on the water. Michigan offers various courses both online and in-person.