Safety
With summer in full swing, Hopkins County residents may be enjoying relaxation on the shores or water sports at 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.
According to the USA Swimming Foundation, nearly 90 children younger than 15 will drown in Texas every year during pool or spa season. In fact, 37 people drowned this year in Texas on the 4th of July alone according to the Texas Department of Parks and Wildlife.
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. Convictions can carry a $2,000 fine or more and up to 180 days in jail.
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. 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 undertow that can prove dangerous. Find more safety tips at nsc.org/home-safety/tools-resources/seasonal-safety/drowning.