United States Coast Guard Auxiliary
District 11nr Division 7 Flotilla 2
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Local Information
Weather
In making plans for going boating be sure to include checking the weather forcast. There are lots of ways, TV, radio broadcasts, web sites and weather stations. Being prepared for the weather will give you peace of mind, help you and those with you be safe and make your boating experience great.
Where to go when weather comes up
When the weather changes and a storm comes up, the best place to be if off the lake. If you can't outrun the storm, EVERYONE PUT ON A PFD! People do not drown wearing a PFD. Find shelter from the waves in a cove or on the leeward side of a point. If the water is shallow beware the the wave action can slam your outdrive into the bottom so you may need to raise it. Be sure to stay till it passes. Always point the bow into the wind and if you need to motor through them, take the waves at about 45° angle to minimize the chance of your bow plunging into a wave and taking on water. Try not to beach your boat where the waves and wind can drive water over the back of the boat. Many a boat have been partially sunk while beached because water came over the stern.
If shore or marina are not an option, PUT ON A PFD! and then find a spot where you can anhor in 10' -15' feet of water. Drop anchor and let out 7 times the depth (about 70' -80') of line, tie it off to a cleat and reverse with the bow into the wind. When you fill the anchor grap give a little extra throttle to make sure it is set. This will work with all types of anchors except mushrooms which will just drag the bottom. Take cover as best you can in your boat and wait it out.. So above all be careful, be aware, and don't boat in a rain or thunderstorm.
Hazards to Navigation
There are a lot of hazards to navigation, sunken rocks, submerged trees, floating logs, and islands. As the water is released out of the lake and the lake level goes down, things like rocks, land and trees become almost exposed, and later, exposed. They are dangerous if run over. In the beginning of the year, fallen trees make their way to the lake and float with the wind and waves, thus becoming a hazard. Be sure to keep a sharp lookout for all these things while boating.