Summer is just around the corner. I know you and your boat are just waiting to have fun. Make this summer’s boating fun a safe one by keeping these boating and personal watercraft safety tips in mind: Don’t overload, observe weight limits Always wear a life jacket Know the waters you are navigating. Always carry a map Report accidents immediately Boating and alcohol do not mix Use your lights at sunset, before sunrise and when foggy Littering is illegal No harassing water birds Take a boat safety class

It is getting that time of year when everyone is looking forward to spring and summer and fun activities on Lake Michigan. Navigating Lake Michigan is different for paddle boarders, kayakers and canoeists then the inland lakes. Here are some safety tips to help keep you safe. Always check the weather in your starting point and ending point Never go out alone. Always use the buddy system. Leave your route information with someone reliable and stick to the route. Always wear a life preserver and pack a waterproof container with a cell phone and waterproof flashlight or flares. Know how safe your craft is and how to handle your craft. Try to stay out of the shipping lane to avoid being hit or capsized. Keep the shoreline in sight at all times. Try to stay away from break walls so as to not get capsized.  Take a safety course with your local paddles club.