The Iowa DNR wants to remind all local boaters to be safe if going to Lake Red Rock this holiday weekend.
For a lot of local boaters, Labor Day weekend is the final chance to be out on the water for the season. For residents of Marion County, there is the largest lake in the state right in their backyards and it is important to be safe out on the water.
It is required to have a life jacket or floatation device in the boat for the number of people that are aboard. You also need to have seat cushions that can be thrown to someone in the water to be used as a floatation device.
It is also required to have a whistle/noise maker on board, along with a fire extinguisher. Local DNR Officer Eric Hoffman said there are other common sense things to remember as well.
“Make sure that your boat is fueled up. That you have a working cell phone in case you get into some trouble or have a mechanical device that you’re able to call for help.”
Always check your boat before you head out on the water to make sure everything is in working order.