With warmer weather more people will be recreating near or in the water through the summer months. Now is the time to start thinking about water safety. Each year, an average of 3,880 people drown in the United States. In fact, drowning is the leading cause of injury death for children aged 1 - 4. Yet, it is possible – just by wearing a life jacket or taking other precautions – to reduce drowning deaths.
National Safe Boating Week was May 18-24, 2013. Water safety officials urge everyone to learn more about safe boating practices and always engage in responsible conduct while on the water. America’s rivers, lakes and oceans are excellent places for boaters to gather with family and friends while enjoying the outdoors. As they do so, it is important that individuals avoid risky behavior that can lead to boating accidents. Factors such as careless and reckless operation, inattention and excessive speed contribute to accidents.
By practicing responsible boating habits, people can help contribute to a safer, more enjoyable experience on the water. Here are some safety tips from the Corps of Engineers to help recreation seekers stay safe in the water at federal recreation areas through the summer months.
Watch your children
It only takes a child an average of 20 seconds to drown, according to water safety officials. Watch your children at all times when around the water. Don’t let them wander very far from the adults and never let them go into the water unless you know it.
Alcohol and water activities don’t mix
Alcohol is a leading contributing factor to fatal boating accidents, according to the U.S. Coast Guard. Just one beer can impair balance, vision, judgment and reaction time. Research shows that about four hours of boating – with exposure to noise, vibration, sun, glare and wind – produces fatigue that simulates drunkenness. Boating fatigue combined with alcohol consumption intensifies the effects of both and increases accident risks.
Boaters should know the rules
Boaters should take appropriate safety classes, be familiar with governing state laws and have proper safety equipment onboard. Many states require boater education or boat operator licenses. As an added incentive, many insurance companies offer discounts to boaters who have successfully completed a boating safety course. While boating make sure you wear a life jacket. Don’t just carry one on board. Make sure it is U.S. Coast Guard-approved and appropriately sized. Most states require children under the age of 13 to wear life jackets. Know your state law!
Don’t overload the boat (consider boat size, number of passengers and extra equipment before loading). Check your boat for all required safety equipment. Carry a set of navigational charts. Check the weather forecast. File a boat plan with family or friends who are not on the vessel so in case something does happen or you are late returning someone will know your approximate whereabouts.
Learn to swim/know your limits
Surprisingly, about two-thirds of those who drown never had the intention of being in the water. Never dive head first into lakes and rivers – the results can be tragic. Never rely on toys such as inner tubes and water wings to stay afloat.
Don’t take chances by over-estimating your swimming skills or give in to peer pressure. Reach or throw a floatation device to help someone in trouble. Don’t go in the water! Swim only in designated swimming areas. Use the buddy system and never swim alone. About half of all drowning victims are alone when they drown. It’s smart to take swimming lessons and learn to swim.
Water safety must be a top priority for everyone using the nation’s waterways and lakes this holiday weekend and through the summer. An estimated 360 million people visit U.S. Army Corps of Engineers recreation areas nationwide annually (http://corpslakes.usace.army.mil/visitors/). Make your visit to any recreation area a safe and enjoyable one. Taking water safety precautions saves lives – maybe even your own.
Federal recreation areas in New England
There are many opportunities to enjoy recreation at federal reservoirs and the Cape Cod Canal in New England this Memorial Day weekend and through the summer. Most areas feature small lakes with facilities designed for day use such as picnicking, swimming, boating, fishing and hunting. A few facilities have overnight camping. For details visit the District web site at http://www.nae.usace.army.mil/ and select “recreation” and then your state and nearest location on the map.