It's a beautiful time of year of taking a boat out on the waters at Smith Mountain Lake but volunteer rescuers stress the importance of safety before hitting the waters.

Some lake users say more can be done to keep the lake close to full pool, but dam operator says sacrifices are necessary.

Increased patrols, safety tips set for busy July 4th at Smith Mountain Lake. (Credit: Rachel Tillapaugh) One of the big ...

OK, it is summertime now. It was dry, it was sunny, it was humid, and it was hot! Well into the 90s even up here in the mountains.