BELTON, Texas — With the total solar eclipse coming to Central Texas on April 8, many residents and visitors in the area are planning to watch the once-in-a-lifetime event from home, local parks or one of the many events happening across Central Texas.
Some residents, however, may be planning to watch the celestial sight from a unique vantage point, on or along the water.
Texas Parks and Wildlife (TPWD) says that with their "often-unobstructed view of the horizon, scenic beauty and lower levels of light pollution, any of the more than 50 bodies of water in the path of totality across the state will make for a truly unique vantage point".
Since summer has not yet arrived, TPWD said the eclipse may be the first time some people take their boats out on the water this year.
Texas Game Wardens will reportedly be out on the water on April 8 to patrol Texas lakes and rivers, reminding everyone to follow basic safety precautions.
“We want everyone to have a safe and enjoyable eclipse experience,” said Cody Jones, Texas Game Warden assistant commander for marine enforcement. “Make a plan to be safe on and around the water by wearing a life jacket, avoiding alcohol and taking a boater education course.”
TPWD said consideration and patience will go "a long way in making the day enjoyable for everyone", especially with numerous boaters expected to be out on the water.
“In addition to being aware of changes in the environment, like water levels, since the last time you were at the lake, try to be patient at boat ramps and allow for extra time to launch due to traffic,” said Texas Parks and Wildlife Department boating education manager Kimberly Sorensen. “Look around and be considerate of others enjoying Texas’ water resources.”
TPWD said it is important to make safety a priority to prevent an accident from "eclipsing" the event. The department gave a list of things to keep in mind for those enjoying the eclipse from the water:
- Make sure your boat has been properly maintained. Before you head to the boat ramp, go through your spring start-up checklist to ensure everything is in working order and confirm you have the required safety equipment.
- Check boat ramp access. With much of the state recently experiencing or still under drought conditions, it is possible your favorite lake or boat ramp is not currently accessible.
- Be an educated boater. If you plan to operate a boat, you should have your boater education certification. The course is required for anyone born on or after Sept. 1, 1993 who wishes to operate certain vessels on the public waterways of Texas and can impact the safety of everyone. Certified boater education courses may be taken online or in person.
- Be aware of changing light conditions. It is recommended to anchor in a safe area, out of the normal paths of boat traffic, during the eclipse. If you must drive, use extreme caution and drive slowly. There will likely be many boats anchored with passengers looking toward the sky. You should also review the lighting requirements for your vessel size, make sure they are in working order and use them during the low-light conditions.
- Wear a life jacket. Accidents on the water happen fast. All children under 13 years old must wear a USCG-approved life jacket or personal flotation device (PFD) when on boats less than 26 ft. in length while underway. Adults must have a properly fitting life jacket easily accessible. Kayaks and paddle boards must also have a USCG-approved PFD for each person onboard. If an accident occurs, it is unlikely you will have time to find a life jacket and secure it properly before entering the water, therefore we recommend you always wear your PFD.
- Use the ignition safety switch. Not only is it the law, but it could save your life. Motorboats and personal watercraft must have an engine cut-off switch. The switch consists of a lanyard that must be attached to the boat operator. This safety feature stops the engine when pulled and is designed to keep boaters safe if they go overboard.
- Avoid alcohol. The probability of being involved in a boating accident doubles when alcohol is consumed. Boating while intoxicated is strictly enforced and carries penalties similar to driving while intoxicated, including possible suspension of driver’s license.
- Operate at a safe speed. Although there are no numerical speed limits on the water, citations may be issued for excessive speed or reckless operation. Use common sense and always operate at a safe speed — especially in crowded areas.
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