Heading down to Shasta this weekend? Keeping these tips and tricks in mind during all of the fun will help keep you and your friends safe while having fun in the sun.

Wear Sunscreen:

Obviously. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, sunscreen use can help prevent skin cancer by protecting you from the sun’s harmful ultraviolet rays. Anyone can get skin cancer, regardless of age, gender or race. It is estimated that one in five Americans will develop skin cancer in their lifetime. Plus, nobody wants a sunburn.

Stay Hydrated:

Not only will the sun dehydrate you, but consuming alcoholic beverages will dehydrate you as well. Together, they could be a recipe for disaster. Even if you don’t feel like you’re dehydrated, make sure you keep water around and alternate other drinks with water to stay healthy and safe of dehydration.

Snack smart:

It’s important to make sure you’ve got food in you, but make sure you’re eating the right foods. Greatist health and food website, recommends you “snack like a champ” by eating fruits and veggies to keep you hydrated. And don’t forget about protein to keep your energy up.

Don’t go overboard:

We mean this in more ways than one. If you’re over the age of 21, and consuming alcohol, pace your drinks out by following the rule of 1 drink for every hour. Pacing your alcohol consumption will keep you from poor decision making and keep you safe from the effects of drinking too much. One of those poor decisions is actually going overboard. If you’re planning on jumping in the water, make sure you’re of sound mind to do so. Drinking alcohol slows down your body functions and affects coordination, which will make swimming a whole lot harder.

Have a buddy:

Keep a friend near you and hold each other accountable. Use a buddy system to make sure you keep track of everyone and make sure you’re both staying safe.

Follow the law:

Be aware of the laws and regulations at Shasta. Following the laws will keep you safe of legal trouble, and will also keep you physically safe. Remember, laws aren’t made to prevent fun; They’re there to keep you and others safe.

If you see something, say something:

Keep an eye out for others as well. If you see someone engaging in dangerous, illegal, or harmful behavior step in, or say something to a friend who is sober. If there is an emergency, call 911.

Shasta Lake’s Boating Regulation and Safety Information page states that “studies indicate that the effects of alcohol and drugs are more pronounced when operating a boat.” Remember to stay safe when you’re having fun, and keep your friend’s safe too!

Take a look at Shasta Lake’s Boating Regulation and Safety Information page here: http://www.shastalake.com/regulations/