Safe Boating Tip of the Week: Be More Wary of Lightning in Summer [Sponsored]

This is the time of year when many love to relax and play out on the water.

Grand Valley Marine, with locations in Grandville and Grand Haven, says to keep you and those around you safe on the water when boating.

Summer officially arrives at 10:51 a.m. Saturday, according to the National Weather Service's Grand Rapids Office.

In embracing summer and enjoying the great outdoors on the water and even at the beach, here's a tip good for boaters and beach-goers to help you stay safe out there.

The reality is that boaters should know the weather forecast before they leave the dock. Weather is essential for boating decisions, and there's no reason not to check what the weather forecast is because NOAAweather radio, mobile devices and other sources make weather information more readily available than ever before.

This is particularly true in summer, which is the peak season for lightning.

In the United States, an average of 51 people are killed annually by lightning and hundreds more are severely injured, according to the National Weather Service and U.S. Coast Guard. To date this year, there have been six lightning fatalities: four in Florida, one in Texas and one in New Mexico, according to the National Weather Service.

Remember, think, act and stay safe when on the water, especially in times of lightning and thunderstorms. Planning and caution are important when the weather might turn from wonderful to dangerous.

In the meantime, enjoy the summer solstice on Saturday, summertime and get out and boat!