Every day, WeatherNation brings you weather information to help keep you safe, and every week, WeatherNation’s John Van Pelt provides helpful tips to keep you safe long before bad weather hits.

This week’s Tip of the Week is staying safe while boating. Joe Astolfi talks with John about staying safe on the water.

With Father’s Day weekend here, many people will head to the water with Dad to enjoy the outdoors. Whether you’re having a casual fishing day with Dad, or spending multiple days out on the lake, here are a few tips to stay safe when you head out.

Q: What are some of the basic safety measures to stay safe on a boat?

A: Wear life jackets at all times when boating, especially when in motion. Carry a fire extinguisher on your boat. Never boat under the influence. Always check the weather before heading out on the water.

Q: What should we do if bad weather strikes while we’re out on the water?

A: If storms are forecast, “It’s better to wait it out, than to ride it out”. If you see a storm approaching head to shore immediately. Lightning is one of the biggest threats to boaters. But, if you are out when a storm hits, here’s what to do. If you’re in a boat with a covered cabin, stay in the middle of the covered cabin and don’t touch metal objects, or use electrical equipment. If you’re in an open boat, stay as low as possible and get to shore as soon as possible.

Q: Where can people get more information about safe boating?

A: The National Safe Boating Council ( www.safeboatingcouncil.org ) has much more information on safe boating and steps you can take to stay safe on the water, and be responsible about boating.

You can watch a new Tip of the Week, every week, on WeatherNation.