Life jackets required, rescue training recommended
With summer in full swing and Independence Day on the horizon, Hopkins County residents may enjoy relaxing on the shores or participating in water sports at Lake Sulphur Springs, Cooper Lake, Lake Fork or even Lake Tawakoni. However, water safety is more crucial than ever to have a fun and secure summer, according to the National Safety Council.
The USA Swimming Foundation reports nearly 90 children younger than 15 years will drown in Texas every year during pool or spa season. In fact, 37 people drowned last year in Texas on the 4th of July alone, according to the Texas Department of Parks and Wildlife. Local game warden Jarred Bryant, who supervises all of Hopkins County, says he has “a busy weekend every year,” keeping residents safe as they practice swimming and boating during Independence Day.
To practice water safety, the NSC advises not to go in the water unless you know how to swim. Even if you do, never swim alone. It’s important to learn CPR and rescue techniques in case your swimming partner is in need of rescue.
Make sure the body of water you are swimming in matches your skill level. For example, do not swim in rushing water if you are not a strong swimmer. Instead, stick to shallower, still water. If you do get caught in current, the NSC says, do not try to fight it. Instead, stay calm and float with the current, or swim parallel to the shore until you can swim free.
For pool safety, only swim in areas supervised by a lifeguard. Do not push or jump on others, and do not dive in unfamiliar areas. Diving where it is too shallow may result in head injuries, the NSC says. Furthermore, never drink alcohol when swimming: According to KidsHealth. org, about half of all male teen drownings are linked to alcohol consumption.
The same goes for drinking and boating. According to the Texas Boating Handbook, Texas law prohibits anyone from operating a boat, sailboat, personal watercraft or water skis with a blood alcohol content of .08% or greater.
“It’s not against the law to drink while you’re boating, but it is illegal to be intoxicated,” Bryant noted.
Convictions can carry a $2,000 fine or more and up to 180 days in jail.
“It’s always a good practice not to mix alcohol and boating,” said SSPD Chief Jason Ricketson.
Ricketson also cautions that boat ramps at Lake Sulphur Springs fall within the city limits, so igniting fireworks at the lake is prohibited by city ordinance.
Life jackets are key for both swimming and boating, says the NSC. Being able to swim does not make someone “drown proof,” and only U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets are the foolproof precaution. All watercraft must have a flotation device for everyone on board, Bryant said, and those age 13 years or younger must wear a life jacket at all times, per state law. Foam cushions are also useful as floatation devices for those who may fall over the side of the boat, Bryant said.
Other items that must be present on a watercraft are a fire extinguisher and a sound-producing device in case of distress, per state law, Bryant noted.
The most important message from safety institutions is not to underestimate the power of water. You never know exactly how deep the water is, and even rivers and lakes can have undertows that can prove dangerous.
Bryant says he urges all Hopkins County residents to practice water safety this Independence Day weekend.
Find more safety tips at nsc.org/home-safety/tools-resources/seasonalsafety/drowning.