From Snorkeling to SCUBA diving... from Water Skiing to Windsurfing... the tips for staying safe during any water activity are plain and simple! Bear these precautions in mind, and be "water wise!"

• Make sure you know how to swim. The best thing anyone can do to stay safe in and around the water is to learn to swim. There are courses available for any age and swimming ability.
  
  
• Alcohol and water activities don't mix. It impairs your balance, judgement and coordination... and more than 50 percent of drownings result from incidents involving alcohol. It is also dangerous to operate a motorized vehicle (boat or jet ski) while under the influence of alcohol.
  
  
• Develop a float plan. Anytime you go out on the water, give a responsible person details about where you will be and how long you will be gone. This is important, because if you are delayed due to an emergency, become lost or encounter other problems, you want help to be able to reach you quickly.
  
  
• Watch the weather. Know the local weather conditions and prepare for electrical storms. Watch local news programs and stop water activities as soon as you see or hear a storm approaching.
  
  
• Know your local laws and regulations. Some states have special laws concerning the use of personal water craft, which address operations, registration and licensing requirements, education, required safety equipment and minimum ages.
  
  
• Use common sense when engaging in water activities. Follow the traffic pattern of the waterway. Obey no-wake and speed zones.
  
  
• If you are in a motorized water craft, use extreme caution around swimmers and surfers. Run at a slow speed until the craft is away from shore, swimming areas and docks. Avoid passing close to other boats and jumping wakes.
  
  
• Coast Guard-approved life jackets should always be worn by the operator, as well as any riders.
  
  
• Use the buddy system...water activities should always be done with a partner, or group of three. You never know when an emergency might occur.
  
  
• Whatever your water activity, make sure you take lessons from a qualified instructor.