You hear a lot about safety measures while boating, but boaters and their families spend a lot of time on and around the docks, too. Just because you're not underway, doesn't mean safety isn't an issue.

1. Kids should wear personal flotation devices (PFDs) on the docks. It only takes one slip to fall in the water. Play it safe.

2. Everyone, both kids and adults, should wear boating or other non-slip shoes on the docks and around the grounds of the marina.

3. Don't swim at the marina. This is a big one. Every year there are reports of people swimming in marina waters and being electrocuted or suffering electrical burns. The problem occurs when faulty wiring or electrical equipment on a boat releases electrical currents into the water, causing potential injury or death to nearby swimmers.

A second reason is that swimmers at marinas are competing for space with boats–a most unfair competition. Swimmers may not be seen soon enough to avoid a collision and/or they may make it tough for the captain to maneuver his boat.

4. Keep the docks and your boat decks clear of personal gear. A misplaced shoe, a bottle of cleaning fluid, a fishing pole or a small toy could cause someone to trip or fall into the water. That cell phone or those car keys you set down for "just a second" are also at risk. They could quite easily get kicked into the water.

5. Close hatches, covers and compartments on your boat before fueling and open them afterwards.

6. Have a family fire drill. Plan for and practice safely exiting your boat and the dock in case of fire.

- Linda Hoff