BOAT SAFETY GUIDELINES.
At the Lake Wellington Boat Club, safety is our top priority. By following these safety guidelines, we can ensure that everyone enjoys a safe and pleasant experience on the water. Lake Wellington is a tranquil space designed for relaxation, which is why the Village of Wellington only allows electric-powered engines. This rule not only preserves the peaceful environment but also contributes to the safety of our members and their families.
Whether you’re cruising in a pontoon boat or fishing from a small boat, here are the key safety practices to keep in mind:
General Safety Rules
- Life Jackets: Always have a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket for every passenger on your boat. Children under 13 are required to wear life jackets at all times.
- Boat Capacity: Follow the manufacturer’s recommended capacity limits to avoid overloading your vessel.
- Safety Equipment: Ensure your boat is equipped with:
- A whistle or horn for signaling.
- A throwable flotation device.
- A fire extinguisher (required for certain electric motor setups).
- Stay Alert: Always maintain a proper lookout for other boats, swimmers, and wildlife. Be especially cautious around docks and narrow channels.
- Electric Motor Maintenance: Regularly inspect your motor to ensure it’s functioning properly. Proper care minimizes the risk of breakdowns while on the lake.
Lights for Night Cruising
Night cruising on Lake Wellington can be a magical experience, but it also requires extra precautions. Proper lighting is essential for visibility and safety.
- Navigation Lights: Ensure your boat has the appropriate navigation lights:
- Green light on the starboard (right) side.
- Red light on the port (left) side.
- A white stern light visible from all directions.
- Anchor Light: If your boat is stationary at night, it must display an all-around white light.
- Additional Lighting Tips:
- Avoid excessively bright lights that could impair the vision of other boaters.
- Use battery-operated or LED lights designed specifically for marine use.
Weather Awareness
- Always check the weather before heading out. Avoid boating during storms or high winds, as these conditions can make the water dangerous.
- If weather changes unexpectedly, head to the nearest dock or shore immediately.
Speed and Wake Control
- Maintain a slow cruising speed at all times to protect the lake’s serene environment and ensure the safety of others.
- Avoid creating wakes that could disturb wildlife, damage docks, or unsettle smaller boats.
Fishing Boat Safety
For our fishing enthusiasts, keep the following in mind:
- Tackle Management: Secure fishing tackle to prevent tripping hazards.
- Rod Safety: Always keep fishing rods secured when not in use to avoid accidental injuries.
- Weight Balance: Avoid sudden movements that could upset the balance of your small fishing boat.
Emergency Preparedness
- Communication: Bring a fully charged cellphone or two-way radio in case of emergencies.
- First Aid Kit: Keep a first aid kit on board and familiarize yourself with its contents.
- Emergency Contacts: Know the contact information for the local marine patrol or club representative.
Respect for Others
- Be courteous to fellow boaters, anglers, and swimmers.
- Keep noise levels low to maintain the peaceful atmosphere of Lake Wellington.
By following these guidelines, we can all enjoy the beauty and serenity of Lake Wellington safely. If you have any questions about boat safety or need assistance preparing your vessel, feel free to contact a member of the Lake Wellington Boat Club team. Let’s work together to keep our lake safe and enjoyable for everyone!