We are weeks away from the official start of summer, and many are taking advantage of the warmer weather.

For those going to enjoy the water this summer, safety is key.

ALSO READ: Unseasonably warm temperatures benefiting picking season for local strawberry farms

First responders spent Tuesday morning at Lake Norman reminding people about lake safety.

“One biggest problems we’ve been having the last several years with all the growth on the lake -- inexperienced operators,” said Stanley Joy with Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department Lake Enforcement.

>> In the video at the top of the page, Channel 9’s Almiya White shares how you can prepare ahead of time.

(WATCH BELOW: Fisherman pulls massive catfish out of Lake Norman)