Power for Progress: Boating in the fall? Keep these safety tips in mind

Headed to the water this fall?
If so, the Grand River Dam Authority wants to remind you of some important seasonal boating safety tips.

Power for Progress…

A weekly column from the Grand River Dam Authority

Boating in the fall? Keep these safety tips in mind

The seasons are changing, and the weather is giving hints that fall is coming fast to Northeast Oklahoma. However, as cooler days arrive, the beauty of the Grand River Dam Authority lakes and rivers region will take on a new look – fall foliage – that will help to draw thousands of visitors to the water.

In fact, many area lake enthusiasts will tell you the best time to enjoy the landscape around the water’s edge is the fall season. However, if your weekend plans include a boat ride on Grand or Hudson, keep the cooler temperatures and shorter days in mind. But, with a little preparation, you can still have an enjoyable trip this time of year. Here are a few safety tips we try to share each year at this time:

• Make sure your boat’s navigational lights are all working properly. It gets darker sooner this time of year and even if you do not plan to be on the water after dark, you should still be prepared for low light conditions. It is also helpful to carry waterproof flashlights in your boat; they may come in handy when loading and unloading passengers.
• In all seasons, it is important to know the area where you will be boating, especially if you are losing daylight sooner. Being familiar with your surroundings will promote a more enjoyable, safer trip.
• While fall remains a popular time to go boating, expect to see less traffic than in the summer months. That is why it is important to carry along a whistle or a cell phone in case of an emergency. There are fewer boats on the water to flag down for help.

GRDA encourages you to enjoy the lakes and river waters in all seasons but also keep these safety tips in mind. As always, remember to boat safe, smart, and sober. Have a great time out there!

GRDA is Oklahoma’s state-owned electric utility; fully funded by revenues from electric and water sales instead of taxes. Each day, GRDA strives to be an “Oklahoma agency of excellence” by focusing on the 5 E’s: employees, electricity, economic development, environmental stewardship, and efficiency.