Lake safety tips

FORT WAYNE, Ind. (WANE) - This past holiday weekend brought plenty of summer fun on area lakes. Thousands spent their Fourth of July swimming and boating. But for some, a pleasant weekend retreat turned tragic.

A 17-year-old Columbia City teen was killed in a lake accident on Shriner Lake in Whitley County. It was later discovered he had an unknown heart condition. On Jimmerson Lake, an eight-year-old is in critical condition after slamming into another boat while inner tubing.

In Southern Indiana, a 28-and-13 year old died after drowning in a Deam Lake.

When lakes become overcrowded, sometimes it's best to dial down skiing and tubing.

Indiana Conservation Officer John Deem says, "Just be aware of how many boats are out there whenever you get out (on the lake). It's never a good time to be out their skiing or inner tubing. The person who is operating the boat, whether you're pulling a skier or tuber or just driving around the lake, has to be totally aware of their surroundings."

If you are boating, remember some simple tips:

• Always have a life-jacket for every person in the boat
• If pulling people, besides the driver of the boat, another person should keep a constant eye on those being pulled
• Be aware of other boats paths, be sure to throttle down if a situation becomes to crowded

Click here for more boating safety tips.

If you are swimming:

• Be aware of designated swimming areas
• Watch for rip-currents or areas that are unsafe for swimming
• Parents should keep a constant eye on children.

Click here for more swimming safety tips.