Summer Weather Safety

By MSW -

Summer is basically here in Missouri!  During stormy season in Missouri, it's a good idea to be prepared when you're going out on the water. Inclement weather is one of the leading causes of boat accidents, especially if the operator isn’t aware of the impending bad weather. Do not go boating if there is bad weather coming. Ensure you check the weather before going out on the water. You do not want to get caught in the middle of a severe weather situation. There are a few precautionary steps you should take to stay safe, and some important information you need to know in case bad weather sneaks up on you. Keep reading to learn all about it from our team at Firstmate Controls!



Check the Weather

Before you head out on the water, it's best to plan ahead and try to avoid the bad weather all together. There are many weather apps that can help you plan ahead for sunny days with no rain in the forecast. We all know that Missouri weather can be unpredictable, and that days forecasting sprinkles could actually be bright and sunny. However, if the weather is calling for thunderstorms or lightning, then it is a good idea to not go out on the water at all. Instead, stay on the dock and enjoy time in your own cove so that you can quickly get off the water if the weather takes a turn for the worse.

Know the Signs

If you start noticing storm clouds rolling in or feel sprinkles falling, then it is time to act quickly and get off the water. There are some old adages / wives' tales that can help you try to predict the weather too. For example: "Red sky at night, sailor's delight. Red sky in the morning, sailor's warning." This means that a bright red sunrise could mean bad weather is coming. Another phrase is "Mare's tails and fish scales - Rain in 24 hours." This is referring to the types of clouds present in the sky and how they combine to form storm fronts. Some other signs of incoming bad weather are...

  • Fog
  • Dark Clouds
  • Lightning
  • Changing Air Pressure (Can be seen on a barometer.)
  • Puffy, Tall Clouds


Act Fast

If you do happen to find yourself caught in a storm while you're out on the water, it's important to make sure you act quickly and follow these steps:

  • Make sure all passengers are wearing life jackets
  • Slow down and keep moving forward
  • Turn on necessary lights
  • For the worst storms, make the passengers sit on the bottom of the boat in the center
  • Secure loose items so they don't cause any injury
  • Get to shore

Safety at the Lake

Boating is an incredibly fun activity at the Lake of the Ozarks, but it's important to follow all the important safety precautions - like avoiding bad weather. Stay safe by following these precautions and not staying out when bad weather rolls in. Firstmate Controls is all about safety. To stay safe on the dock, make sure you have a remote control boat lift from Firstmate Controls! Give us a call to learn more. 866-570-9707.

Boat Lift Controls You Can Count On!

Firstmate Controls 
410 Century Business Drive
Labadie, MO 63055

Phone: (866) 570-9707



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