Stay Safe in the Water

The Denton County Sheriff’s Office patrols Lake Ray Roberts and Lewisville Lake. As the weather continues to heat up, many Denton County residents look forward to our area lakes. It’s essential to understand that boat safety is critical in preventing injuries. Here are a few tips that our Boat Patrol Unit recommends in order to stay safe on the water.

Take a boater safety course – Make everyone wear life jackets (anyone under 13 must have one on).

Ensure that everyone on board has a properly fitting life jacket.
● Have a plan – a person you can depend on should know where you are when you are
departing, and how long you plan to be there.
● Avoid alcohol.
● Watch children closely.
● Stay weather aware, and check the weather
forecast before heading out to avoid
unexpected storms.
● Protect yourself, your passengers, and
everyone on the water by ALWAYS wearing
an engine cutoff switch when driving a boat.
● Stay alert, and keep a constant lookout for swimmers, boats, and other obstacles
● Do not overload your boat.
● Follow all navigation rules – speed limits, no wake zones, etc.
● Always have the proper safety equipment on board.

With the high temperatures and high heat index, please make sure that heat safety precautions are in place to prevent heat stress-related issues. Make sure you are staying hydrated, taking frequent breaks indoors, and be on the lookout for signs of heat exhaustion!

Heat stroke symptoms include:

● Confusion 
● Hot, red, dry, or damp skin 
● Nausea or dizziness 
● Rapid and strong pulse 
● Throbbing headache 
● Body temperature above 104 F 
● Lethargy or loss of consciousness

Heat exhaustion symptoms include:

● Cool, pale, clammy skin 
● Weakness 
● Dizziness 
● Heavy sweating 
● Nausea or vomiting 
● Fast, weak pulse

Reminders:  
● Ensure pets have access to shade and water at all times when outside.
● Place a palm on the pavement before allowing dogs to step on it. If it’s too hot for you, then it’s too hot for your pet.
● Opt to take dogs on walks earlier in the morning or later in the evening
● Vehicles — never leave kids or pets unattended in your vehicle. LOOK before you LOCK
● If you plan on being outdoors, limit strenuous outdoor activities, find shade, take breaks, and stay hydrated.

Please continue to check on friends, family, and pets in this heat. For more information on how
to stay safe, visit weather.gov/safety/heat.

We are currently hiring for several positions! If you are interested in a career in Law
Enforcement, join Denton County Sheriff’s Office, and be a part of a great organization. Visit our
website to apply. https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/dentoncounty