Wisconsin summers are made for lake days — early morning cruises, afternoons towing tubers, sunset rides, and weekends spent with family and friends on the water. As Boater Safety Week reminds us, a little preparation goes a long way toward making every outing safer and more enjoyable.
At Gage Marine, our Ladies on the Lake classes are designed to help boaters feel more confident behind the wheel while reinforcing important boating basics that apply on lakes across Wisconsin. Whether you’re operating a pontoon, bowrider, wake boat, or fishing boat, these reminders are always worth reviewing before heading out.
Start Every Lake Day with a Safety Check
Before leaving the dock, take a few minutes to check the basics:
- Weather forecast
- Fuel level
- Battery charge
- Navigation lights
- Steering and throttle controls
- Required safety equipment
A quick pre-departure routine can help prevent issues once you’re out on the water.
Life Jackets Matter
Every boat should have a properly fitting U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket for each passenger on board. Wisconsin law also requires additional throwable flotation devices on certain vessels. Learn more about Wisconsin life jacket laws.
Even strong swimmers should keep life jackets easily accessible, especially when boating with children or participating in watersports.
Know Your Surroundings
One of the most important boating habits is staying alert and aware of nearby boats, swimmers, docks, and changing conditions.
A few simple reminders:
- Maintain safe speeds
- Keep proper distance from shorelines and docks
- Watch for swimmers and paddlecraft
- Assign a passenger as a lookout in busy areas
- Slow down in no-wake zones
Boating defensively helps create a safer experience for everyone sharing the lake.
Understand Basic Navigation Rules
Knowing who has the right of way and understanding marker buoys can help prevent confusion and accidents on the water.
Boaters should familiarize themselves with:
- Navigation lights
- Channel markers
- Warning buoys
- No-wake and restricted areas
- Passing and crossing situations
Don’t Forget Your Essential Equipment
Every boat should carry basic emergency and safety supplies, including:
- Fire extinguisher
- Throwable flotation device
- Sound-producing device
- First aid kit
- Flashlight
- Anchor and line
Having the right equipment onboard helps boaters stay prepared for unexpected situations.
Confidence Comes with Experience
One of the biggest takeaways from our Ladies on the Lake classes is that confident boating starts with education, practice, and preparation. Reviewing safety basics each season helps boaters feel more comfortable operating their boat and handling busy summer lake traffic.
No matter where you boat in Wisconsin, safe habits help everyone enjoy more time on the water all season long. Learn more about Wisconsin Boater Safety.
