The summer months mean a lot of boats are out on the water and it’s important to be boating safely.

There are some things boaters are required to have on board by law. The first is a life preserver for every person on board. Mark O’Dell with Alpin Haus Boats and Motorsports says the life preservers should be properly fitted for each passenger's size and weight. A distress flag, flares, fire extinguisher and whistle are also must-haves. Mark said it’s important to put as much emphasis on staying safe as boaters do on having fun.

“They get so wrapped up and having a good time, that they forget to have a safe time also, we’re all out here to have fun but we want to do it safely,” said O'Dell.

O'Dell also recommends taking the New York Boating Safety Course. For more information on boat safety gear head to www.alpinhausboats.com.