Corps highlights importance of water safety this Independence Day Weekend
More public recreation fatalities occur in July than any other month, so the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) asks the recreating public to play it safe while on, in, or near the water this holiday weekend.
Drowning is a leading cause of death this time of year. There have been seven water-related deaths this year at Hartwell, Richard B. Russell, and J. Strom Thurmond lakes. Of those deaths, USACE public recreation fatality statistics show the following trends:
- All victims were male AND over the age of 30
- None of the victims were wearing a life jacket
- It is suspected that drugs/alcohol had a role in some of the cases
- Six of the seven victims did not plan to be in the water
USACE personnel expect an increased number of visitors on the lakes this holiday weekend and throughout the summer and urge everyone to wear a life jacket.
Statistics show that more than 140 people drown at Corps lake and river projects every year, yet the number of deaths by drowning could be reduced drastically if everyone would wear a life jacket while in and around the water.
Last year, 87 percent of drowning deaths at Corps projects were male, 84 percent were 18 years old or older, and 87 percent were not wearing a life jacket.
Visitors to the Savannah District recreational areas are encouraged to take advantage of the free life jacket loaner program at many designated swimming areas. Visitors can take a lifejacket from the display, use it, and return it when finished.