KANSAS CITY, Mo. - As one of the nation's largest federal provider of water-based recreation, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers promotes water safety and urges extra caution while in or around water during the upcoming Independence Day holiday.
Many people enjoy water-based recreation as part of their Fourth of July celebration. Outdoors enthusiasts can enjoy scenic river and lake views while taking advantage of picnicking, camping, fishing, boating and swimming opportunities.
Unfortunately, some celebrations end tragically due to accidents in, on and around the water. To ensure a safe recreation experience over the holiday and throughout the year, the Corps urges visitors to practice the following public safety tips:
· Leave your fireworks at home
o Fireworks displays occur at many lakes and nearby communities.
o Fireworks are not allowed at Corps of Engineers lake projects.
o Use of fireworks increase the risk of wildfires during dry conditions.
o Misuse of fireworks could result in personal injury.
· Beat the heat
o Take frequent breaks during your outdoor activities.
o Wear SPF 15+ sunscreen for skin protection.
o Increase your fluid intake with water and non-caffeinated beverages.
o Avoid alcohol abuse.
· Wear your life jacket
o 90% of those who drown at Corps of Engineers lakes and rivers were not wearing life jackets.
o Drowning is the nation’s second leading cause of accidental death.
o Many people drown by overestimating their swimming skills and swim beyond their limits.
· Pay attention while boating
o Inattentive boating is the leading cause of boating accidents.
o Obey all navigation rules established in your states.
o Be a defensive boater.
o Pay attention to and follow all regulatory buoys.
Please take the time to practice all of these safety tips while recreating over the busy Independence Day holiday. For more information on these and other safety information please visit the Kansas City District’s public safety website at www.nwk.usace.army.mil/Locations/District-Lakes/Safety/.