Lake Rules and Safety Tips

According to LOC Rules and Regulations Handbook

1. Personal Flotation Devices 

All boats and nonmotorized watercraft (canoes, kayaks, SUP) must carry at least one U.S. Coast Guard-approved personal floatation device (PFD), in serviceable condition, for each person on board. Children 12 years of age and under and non-swimmers must wear a PFD at all times while in a Boat.

2. Sound Devices

All boats and nonmotorized watercraft must carry a sound-producing device (e.g., horn, whistle, bell) capable of producing a blast that is at least 2 seconds in duration and is audible for at least one-half mile.

3. Night Lights.

Boats and nonmotorized watercraft may not be operated on the Lake before sunrise or after sunset without illuminated navigation lights. Boats in motion must illuminate their bow and stern lights. Boats not in motion must illuminate, at minimum, their stern anchor light.


4. Paddlers must stay in the no-wake zone unless they are directly crossing the lake. In order to cross, they must be wearing a high visibility vest or be escorted by a power boat."


Kayak Tips for Beginners (source)

Start on a lake:

It’s a good idea to start kayaking on a lake or a very calm body of water, preferably when there are fewer powerboats on the lake, which can create a lot of waves.

Kayak with others:

For kayaking safety, kayak with friends or family when you’re first starting out. You can also kayak close to shore and stay within sight of family and friends on the beach. If you need help, your friends will be close by, and you can stay safe while kayaking.

Take short trips:

It takes a while for beginners to build up muscle strength and confidence for long trips. Start with short trips and don’t be overly ambitious on your first few kayaking trips. It’s better to paddle along the shore on your first trips rather than paddling far out into the middle of the lake. Keep your first trips to under an hour, and slowly build up confidence and skill.

Things You Need to Go Kayaking (source)

Paddle:

A great paddle is just as important as your kayak. The paddle length depends on your torso height. If your torso is longer than 28 inches, your paddle should be 200 centimeters or more. If your torso is shorter than 28 inches, make sure you have a shorter paddle.

Lifejacket:

You should always wear a life jacket when you’re kayaking. This is one of the most important pieces of safety equipment, and a lifejacket can save your life if you end up in the water.

Food and water:

Have enough water for the day, and add a few snacks to your bag. You never know when you’ll need a bit of extra energy to paddle back to shore.

Bilge pump:

If you have an enclosed kayak, it might fill with water when you’re kayaking. Having a bilge pump on board to empty your kayak will increase safety. This pump will empty the water out of your kayak in case of an emergency.