ON THE LAKES
Do you know where your lifejacket is? Minnesota state law requires all watercraft, including canoes and kayaks, to have one wearable U.S. Coast Guard approved personal flotation device (PFD) on board and readily accessible for each person in the watercraft. The U.S. Coast Guard requires that all children under 10 years of age wear a life preserver when in a recreational boat. To be safe, everyone should wear a lifejacket. It won't work if you aren't wearing it.
Don't End up On the Rocks!
All of the lake is Voyageurs National Park contain submerged hazards that boaters need to be aware of. There are many submerged rocks that are capable of severely damaging boats. Always carry a good set of navigational maps, and know how to use them! Also be on the lookout for buoys that indicate hazards and recommended travel routes.
Lake levels change throughout the boating season. Rocks that were far beneath the lake's surface at high water may pose a danger when lake levels drop. The many submerged rocks at Voyageurs make this a place to avoid jumping and diving into unknown waters. NEVER jump or dive into water without KNOWING how deep it is and whether or not there are submerged rocks, logs or other debris present.
Navigation You Need to Know
The U.S. Coast Guard Buoy System: The Coast Guard numbered red and green buoy system is used to guide boaters and to mark hazards. To use this system you need to know the direction of lake flow. Namakan, Sand Point and Crane lakes all flow north, or down-lake, to Kettle Falls. Kabetogama Lake flows east, or down-lake, to Namakan and Kettle Falls. Rainy Lake flows west, or downlake, to International Falls. Remember, keep RED buoys to your RIGHT while traveling up-lake (RED-RIGHT-RETURN). Stop by a park visitor center for more information.
Nautical Charts On-line
A new government website now offers nautical charts that may be viewed online. Visit http://www.nauticalcharts.gov and click on the link that says, "Display Chart Images."
Safe Boating Checklist
- A wearable life preserver readily accessible for each person
- navigation lights for travel at night - USE THEM
- fire extinguisher
- whistle or horn
- navigational maps
- anchor, paddles or oars, and lines
- spare propeller and shear pin
- flashlight and first aid kit
- type IV throwable cusion or ring
Reminders
- Don't overload the boat.
- All pasengers should stay seated within the boat while it is moving.
- Riding on the bow or gunwhale is prohibited!
- Watch the weather - get off the lake during thunderstorms.
- Know the symptoms and watch for hypothermia from cold water and wind.
- Know where you can refuel.
- Avoid prolonged exposure. Wear sunscreen and a hat.
- BOAT SOBER - operating a boat under the influence of drugs or alcohol is illegal.
- Plan ahead- bring extra food and water in case you are delayed.
- Weather can change quickly in all seasons, dress in layers.
- Consider bringing insect repellant or a headnet during the warm season in case biting insects are active.
TRAVELING IN THE BACKCOUNTRY
- Try to avoid traveling alone.
- When traveling in the park's backcountry be sure to let someone know your plans.
- Bring extra food, water, and clothing in case conditions change or you are delayed.
- Bring a first-aid kit and know how to use it.
- Weather can change quickly in all seasons, dress in layers.
- Wear sturdy shoes with ankle support when hiking on backcountry trails.
- Bring a map, compass, and other orienteering equipment as appropriate.
- Watch for poison ivy and ticks.
- You must filter, boil, or otherwise treat water before drinking it or using it to prepare food.
- Store your food properly. Use bear-resistant food lockers when they are available, otherwise hang food items in a tree at least ten feet from the ground and ten feet from the main trunk.