Marina
The Lake of the Ozarks in Missouri is a popular destination for many families and visitors, especially during Labor Day weekend. However, with increased crowds comes the heightened risk of accidents, including water fatalities, drowning incidents, and other emergencies.
As you head to the lake for boating, swimming, or just relaxing, here are the top safety concerns and tips to keep in mind, so you and your family can enjoy a safe and memorable weekend.
Water Safety Concerns at Lake of the Ozarks
The Missouri State Highway Patrol (MSHP) has reported several concerning incidents at the lake this year, with seven water fatalities and two drownings of toddlers in August alone.
These tragic events emphasize the importance of water safety, particularly when children are involved.
Emergency Response Delays
Local law enforcement and emergency responders have issued a joint statement urging families to call 911 immediately if a child goes missing. Delays in activating 911 have been a significant concern.
The authorities emphasize that searching on your own can delay official response efforts, which can be critical in life-threatening situations.
Safety Tip: Always call 911 before searching for missing children. The quicker the response, the quicker help arrives.
Key Safety Tips for Visitors
1. Know Where Your Children Are at All Times
The Lake of the Ozarks is known for its vast size, making it easy for children to wander off or get lost. To prevent accidents, it’s important to:
- Keep a constant eye on children near the water, especially in crowded or unfamiliar areas.
- Enforce strict rules with children about not going near water unless supervised.
Safety Tip: Designate a responsible adult to keep watch of children and be aware of all nearby access points to pools or water bodies.
2. Wear Life Jackets
The Missouri Highway Patrol encourages families to always wear life jackets on the water, particularly for young children. Even if you’re a strong swimmer, life jackets can make all the difference in emergencies.
Safety Tip: Make sure everyone, especially little ones, wears a life jacket. This is a simple yet effective precaution that can save lives.
3. Keep Swimming Areas Secure
In many accidents, pool access points were found to be unsecured. It’s essential to:
- Lock gates and barriers to prevent unsupervised access to pools or lakefront areas.
- Establish clear rules and ensure they are enforced by all adults present.
Crime and Theft Concerns at Lake of the Ozarks
With large crowds arriving for the long weekend, there are increased opportunities for crime, including theft of personal belongings from vehicles or boats. According to Sergeant Kyle Green, law enforcement at the lake, tourists should be aware of the risks.
Safety Tip: Always lock your vehicles, even if you’re just stepping away briefly. Secure personal items on boats or at rental properties to reduce the chance of theft.
Protecting Your Vehicle and Boat
- Lock up personal items in your vehicle or on your boat.
- Be mindful of your surroundings and report any suspicious activity to authorities immediately.
Driving Under the Influence- A Major Concern
Another critical safety issue at Lake of the Ozarks during Labor Day weekend is driving under the influence (DUI). Whether on the road or in the water, drinking and driving significantly increases the likelihood of accidents. Sergeant Green stresses the importance of not driving when impaired.
Safety Tip: If you’re planning on drinking, make sure to designate a sober driver or use a ride-sharing service.
Business Owners Take Action
Local business owner Rob Henggeler, who owns Lucy’s at the Lake, is going above and beyond to help prevent intoxicated driving. Henggeler has committed to paying for Uber rides for locals who are over-intoxicated and cannot drive.
Safety Tip: If you feel you’ve had too much to drink, take advantage of services like Uber or Lyft, or ask a sober friend for a ride.
Emergency Contact Information
In case of any emergency while at the lake, *MSHP’s emergency number is 55 from a cell phone or 1-800-525-5555 for immediate assistance.
Stay Calm and Organized During Emergencies
- Call 911 as soon as an incident occurs.
- Follow instructions from emergency responders to stay organized and focused.
The Labor Day weekend at Lake of the Ozarks offers a great opportunity to relax and enjoy the scenic beauty of Missouri. However, it’s essential to remain vigilant and follow safety protocols to ensure a safe experience for everyone.
By taking simple steps like wearing life jackets, keeping children supervised, and avoiding drinking and driving, you can help prevent accidents and make the weekend enjoyable for all.
Remember, safety is everyone’s responsibility. Stay informed and make sure your weekend at the lake is both fun and safe!