Lake Safety Tips for Minnesotans this Summer

Summer in Minnesota means lake time! But while you're out on or by the water, you want to make sure everyone is being safe. You don't want a fun trip to the lake to end in an ER visit or worse.

There are so many tips for lake and water safety in general that we could be here all day. So I tried my best to pull the ones that I think are the most important to be aware of while you're out at the lake this summer.

ALSO READ: WATCH: Man Caught in Quicksand in Minnesota

Water Safety Tips for When You're On the Lake

I put together this list from water safety tips I found from the American Red Cross and the Forest Service.

Get our free mobile app

1. If there is thunder and lightning, leave the water immediately.

2. Watch for currents, waves, and rapids. This can happen quickly and take you away from the boat or beach very fast. This kind of leads into...

3. Always be aware of your surroundings (in general).

Fuse, Thinkstock

4. Take a CPR class. The Forest Service points out that it may take some time for emergency services to arrive, depending on where you are, so knowing CPR can be life-saving.

5. Watch for anything unsuspecting underwater, like a log or rock. This is especially important if you're tubing. You can tell if something is there if the water is parting, but you can't see why. Trust me, something is there.

6. Always enter the water feet first, especially if it's unknown or shallow water. You should only dive into water if it's clearly marked as safe for diving.

7. Swim sober, or you might make rash decisions that aren't safe.

8. Swim with another person in case one of you needs help; then the other is there.

jacoblund, Thinkstock

9. Consider taking a swim lesson before you go to the lake.

10. If you don't know how to swim or aren't comfortable, wear a life jacket.

11. Know the weather conditions before you go.