LAURIUM – Boating is one of the best ways to enjoy Michigan’s Great Lakes in the summer. Warm weather and sunny skies mean more time outdoors and cooling off from those sun rays.

Boating and being on the water soothes most ailments. No matter how much experience you may have, it’s always a good idea to review all boating safety rules before leaving the dock.

“We dream of summer in the U.P. and once it finally arrives, we all head to the nearest body of water,” said Ryan Bessolo, registered nurse and injury prevention coordinator for Aspirus Health. “It’s important to remember that accidents on the water are preventable.”

Before you board, it’s worth checking out these safety tips from Aspirus:

— Be weather-wise. Check your local weather conditions before heading out on the open water. TV and radio forecasts are great sources of information. If you notice darkening clouds, rough winds or sudden drops in temperature, play it safe by getting off the water.

— Wear life jackets. Wear a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket while on boats and motorized water vehicles like jet skis, when around open bodies of water or when participating in water sports like tubing, knee boarding or water skiing.

— Avoid alcohol; don’t drink and boat. Don’t drink alcohol while out enjoying the water. Alcohol can affect your judgement, vision, balance and coordination.

— Designate an assistant skipper. Make sure more than one person on board is familiar with boating safety and all aspects of your boat’s handling and operations. The more people who are familiar with operations the more hands-on deck if an emergency presents itself.

— Stay hydrated. While out on the water, there is nothing more important than staying hydrated. Avoid drinking caffeinated drinks.

— Be courteous. Be mindful of other boats and swimmers and keep a safe distance. Keeping your wake low when near other boats, swimmers or the shore is vital.

“Education about water and boating safety is important because it can help reduce personal injury,” Bessolo said. “Keeping up to speed about boat operations, etiquette and rules of the water are extremely important for everyone.”