A few tips could keep you safe in the water this summer

Date: 7/5/2010

CONCORD As summer vacation is here for many and the temperatures climb higher, more and more people will be recreating near or in the water. Now is the time to think about water safety and boating safety.

Drowning is a leading cause of accidental death for children. Yet, it is possible just by wearing a life jacket or taking other precautions to reduce drowning deaths. An estimated 70 percent of reported boating fatalities occurred on boats where the operator had not received safety instruction; and of those victims who drowned in boating incidents, nearly 90 percent were not wearing life jackets.

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, which manages nearly 12 million acres of public lands and waters nationwide, offers the following safety tips to help recreation seekers stay safe in water over the Fourth of July holiday weekend and through the hot summer months.

Approximately one-third of all boating accidents and fatalities involve alcohol. Just one beer can impair balance, vision, judgment, and reaction time. Research shows that four hours of boating 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 take appropriate safety classes, be familiar with governing state laws and have proper safety equipment on board before boating. 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.

Wear a life jacket don't just carry one on board. Make sure life jackets are 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, the number of passengers, and extra equipment before loading). Check your boat for all required safety equipment. Carry a set of navigational charts.

Follow the manufacturer's suggested procedures before starting the engine. Check the weather forecast and get updates. File a float plan with family or friends who are not on the boat so someone will know if you are late to return or missing.

It only take 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.

Surprisingly, two-thirds of those who drown never had the intention of being in the water. It makes sense to learn to swim if you will be around water. Never dive 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. Reach or throw a floatation device to help someone in trouble. Don't go in the water. Swim only in designated swimming areas and never swim alone.

Water safety must be a top priority for everyone using the nation's waterways and lakes this upcoming holiday weekend and throughout the summer. An estimated 360 million people visit U.S. Army Corps of Engineers recreation areas nationwide annually. Please make your visit to any recreation area a safe and enjoyable one. Taking water safety precautions saves lives maybe your own.

There are numerous opportunities to enjoy recreation at the 31 federal flood risk management protection reservoirs and the Cape Cod Canal in New England this Fourth of July holiday weekend and throughout the summer. Most areas feature small lakes with facilities designed for day use such as picnicking, swimming, boating, fishing and hunting. There are also a few facilities for overnight camping. Most Corps-managed recreation areas are open through the middle of September.

There are beaches and boat ramps available at reservoirs and lakes in Massachusetts, Connecticut, New Hampshire and Vermont.

For more information go to the Corps' New England District Web site at www.nae.usace.army.mil nd location on the map to find out what recreation areas are available near you or go directly to the recreation Web page at http://www.nae.usace.army.mil/recreation.htm. More information on what is offered at each location is available from the park manager listed on the Web page of the specific reservoir or lake of interest.