The Austin, Texas area is experiencing a drought that has left water levels at Lake Travis dangerously low. But that’s not enough to keep boaters off the lake. Lake Travis marinas and boat rental services are gearing up for the busiest season of the year.

But with low lake levels, boaters need to use caution. Islands that used to be well below the water level are popping up everywhere. Although these are dangerous, even more dangerous are the islands lurking just below water level. Boats hitting these could run aground, or worse, flip. Now more than ever it’s important to where a life jacket while boating on Lake Travis.

Personal water craft are also dangerous when the lake levels are low. They can also run aground or hit shallow islands. Always use personal water craft in pairs so that you have someone watching out for you.

Lake Austin, which is downstream from Lake Travis, is held at a relatively constant level, so it may be safer. However, Lake Austin is narrow and can be more crowded, which requires boaters to play it safe. Personal water craft are usually banned on Lake Austin during holiday weekends such as the Fourth of July.

If you’re looking to rent a boat on Lake Travis, one of the more popular boat rental businesses is Just for Fun. Located in Hudson Bend off of Ranch Road 620, the boat rental store offers a wide variety of water craft rental as well as party boats. It is right next to Carlos ‘n Charlies, so you can cool off with a cold margarita after a day in the sun. Carlos ‘n Charlies offers live music many evenings. So the perfect day may be hitting the lake in the morning before it gets too hot, then heading over to the restaurant for the evening.

Another popular boat rental option are boat sharing clubs, which are gaining in popularity. These can also be called “fractional ownership” clubs. Many of these clubs let you use any available boat, so it gives you a variety of boats and sizes to fit your needs. Going out with a large group? Perhaps a pontoon boat makes the most sense. Taking your girlfriend out for a day on the lake? A small speedboat will do the trick. These clubs take the hassle out of boat ownership. Not only do they maintain all of the boats, but they usually put them in the water for you. No hauling the boat from your house and launching it in the water. Just show up with your cooler and hop on in.

Regardless of how you get on the water, remember the safety tips. In addition to looking out for islands and wearing a life jacket, be sure to wear plenty of sunscreen. The reflective properties of the lake make the sun burn quickly, so apply sunscreen before going out on the lake and reapply often. Limit your alcohol intake as it could hasten the onset of dehydration. Of course, the driver should definitely limit his alcoholic intake. Police are busy on Lake Travis, looking for people boating under the influence.