Topeka ? Drought conditions across the state require boaters be cautious while on the water this summer. Hazards such as tree stumps, old bridge frames, road beds, buildings or rock ledges are now closer to the surface.

Kansas lakes have seenfluctuations to the extreme in both directions over the past 10 years.

Boaters are responsible for watching out for hazards because it is not possible to mark each one with a buoy.

The most common boating-related damage reported to insurance companies is for lower-end unit damage. However, striking an underwater object can cause a boater to lose control. At this point, passengers or the operator could be ejected.

In some cases, loss of control results in an accident with another boat.