After a series of deadly water accidents/drownings over the last several weeks, safety should be on everyone’s mind. Whenever the weather heats up, people tend to head to the water. While it can be relaxing, it only takes a split second to become a tragedy. Hamilton County Office of Emergency Management is urging everyone on the water to be especially cautious during the summer season. We are asking everyone on the water to focus on the following safety precautions:
Wear a life jacket at all times. The Tennessee Law states that every person must have a life jacket on board a boat.
Wear a life jacket if you are at least two feet from a body of water.
Do not boat under the influence of alcohol. It affects your judgement, vision, balance and coordination. Factor in boat motion, sun, wind, can accelerate a drinker’s impairment.
Inspect your boat/water recreation vehicle before you take on the water. Make sure everything is working properly.
Never swim alone. Be sure to use the “buddy system”.
When swimming in lakes, you should refrain from area that are marked with signs of "Danger of Drop Offs or Strong Currents."
Never dive first into unknown water. Even if you are familiar with a like or river, conditions under water can change.
Don’t rely on floatation devices or water rings to keep children safe. An adult should be swimming with them until they are strong enough to swim without an adult.
Always make sure someone knows where you are and what time you plan to return.
Hot weather, inexperience and alcohol are factors that can cause swimmers and boaters to overlook possible safety concerns. Our goal is to ensure everyone is aware of the dangers and risks on the water. We want everyone to have the proper safety equipment and follow the proper procedures that help reduce those risks.
Amy Maxwell
Hamilton County Office of Emergency Management