Water, boating safety reminders offered for July 4th weekend
Cobb residents have many options to enjoy the water this holiday weekend - whether it's the four county aquatic centers, two county outdoor pools, three YMCA centers, Six Flags White Water or Hurricane Harbor at Six Flags Over Georgia, Lake Acworth or Lake Allatoona.
Regarding water safety, Lance Davis, a public affairs specialist for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Mobile District, including Georgia, Alabama, Florida and Mississippi, said, "A child can drown in less than 30 seconds; an adult in 60 seconds, but it takes less than a minute to put on a life jacket. A life jacket can save your life if you wear it right."
Last year there were 25 deaths by drowning around the Mobile District, not one who was wearing a life jacket, Davis noted.
Tips for a safer summer:
- Life jackets work if you wear them right.
- Never swim alone.
- Swim in designated swim areas.
- Never dive or swim in unknown waters.
- Be aware of underwater hazards such as stumps, rocks or other objects.
- Obey all posted signs, markers and navigational aids.
- Never drink alcohol and operate a vessel.
- Check your life jacket for damages, such as broken parts, mold or ripped fabric.
