()Many families look forward to spending more time together on the water as summer nears.

Boating or other watersports like skiing, tubing, and wakeboarding could be part of the fun. Education and preparation are key to a successful day on the water. Make sure everyone has a good start to the summer by making sure they have lifejackets that fit properly and are familiar with safety procedures.

Make sure you choose the right size for your child’s lifejacket when fitting it. You should not fit a child into an adult lifejacket. Instead, place the jacket on the child. Secure all straps. Next, lift the child’s arm above his/her head and secure the jacket. It’s too big if it falls off.

BoatUS has a video that will help you determine the correct fit. BoatUS.org/fit-video.

You can borrow a lifejacket from your neighbor or friend, or get one free through the BoatUS Foundation Kids Life Jacket loaner program. Information about the 550 locations can be found at BoatUS.org/life-jacket-loaner.

You should ensure that any child riding alongside a boat has a lifejacket and knows how to communicate with the boat driver.

You can ensure everyone has fun while staying safe by using the following rules and hand signals:

* If the speed is right, use an OK sign with your thumb and first finger.

* If you want the driver to go faster, use a thumbs up; to slow down, use a thumbs down; and use a slashing motion across your neck to stop.

* If you fall off, raise both arms above your head and clasp your hands as soon as possible to let the boat driver know you are okay.

More signals available at BoatUS.com/hand-signals.

* While waiting in the water, ready to be pulled or towed again, be patient and allow the boat captain a little time to safely deliver the towline or tube to you.

* If you decide to come back aboard, the driver will allow the boat to drift to you with the engine off. Only use a deck, step or boarding ladder to reboard the boat after the driver has indicated that it is safe.

* Never swim near a boat while the engine is on.

Visit BoatUS.orgFind out more about staying safe in the water this summer. Have fun, stay hydrated, and wear sunscreen