The Berra's Lake of the Ozarks Real Estate Blog

 A new law that requires all docks at the Lake of the Ozarks to have the nearest 911 land address posted was signed by the Governor last month. Ameren UE is encouraging dock owners to plan now for the 911 regulation that will take effect in 2010. This new law has received support from the Missouri State Water Patrol and other emergency response agencies that are optimistic that this will help save time when the minutes count. You can check out the specifics for the sign requirements by going to:

            www.ameren.com/lakeozarks/ADC_911addresses.pdf

If you have any further questions you can contact Ameren's Lake Office at 573-365-9252.

To get your sign made up, I suggest you contact Instant Signs and Banners at 2935 Bagnell Dam Blvd. Their number is 573-365-5880. They do excellent work!

  When you visit the Lake of the Ozarks, we want you to have a great time and a safe time. One of the best ways of staying safe is being prepared.

There are nearly 11,000 incidents a year where people are facing the frightening situation of being in a submerged car. Whenever you are around lakes and rivers, you run that risk. Road accidents, slippery surfaces, and falling asleep at the wheel are some of the factors that cause cars to plunge into the water. Here are some steps to save lives in the event this happens to you.

1. Stay calm. A 2-10 minute lapse exists before a vehicle sinks.

2. Unlock your doors, roll down the windows and open sunroof. A door opens when the water is above your knees, but as it descends, this option is gone.

3. Release seat belts before you submerge.

4. Break the side window before you submerge if you are unable to open it, or the car door. (There are special tools for this and I will provide you with a website for more info.) Apply force to the corner of the glass, not the center.

5. Try to exit through the trunk before you become submerged if the windows and doors remained closed. Some cars are equipped with fold down seats for access to the trunk. Know the location of the hanging trunk release pull.

6. Remove heavy clothing and shoes if your vehicle is under water.

7. Take a long deep breath before the car's interior completely fills with water.

8. Push open an unlocked door. The inside pressure is equal to the outside. If you are in a river, open the door opposite the river flow.

9. Break the side window at the corner if the doors won't open.

10. Swim up.

Tips and Warnings

*The front end sinks first because of the weight.

*Side windows made of laminated glass are harder to break.

*Turn headlights on. They help rescuers locate your vehicle.

*Don't try breaking the front window - it is a stronger type of glass.

*Beware of your vehicle flipping upside down or on it's side.

*Purchase a special tool to have in your car at all times. You can go to www.LifeHammer.com or to www.ResQMe.com . These tools are highly recommended and work when completely submerged.

We certainly hope that you will never face this situation, but hopefully you will be prepared if you do.

 On Wednesday, September 16, 2009, the 7th Annual Blue Moon Animal Sanctuary Golf Benefit and Silent Auction will take place at Osage National Golf Club in Lake Ozark, MO.  This benefit is to raise funds to assist in the care and housing of abused, abandoned, unwanted, injured, and otherwise un-adoptable dogs and cats in the Lake area. This is the largest golf fundraiser for animals at the Lake.

The golf tournament has something for everyone! Lunch, golf, drinks, prizes, raffles, and a super silent auction.

Please look at the website and become a part of the crowd to help out the animals who cannot help themselves.

Click on www.bluemoongolf.info 

Thanks for your help!