Play It Safe on the Lakes
Alcoa-Yadkin encourages swimmers and boaters to “play it safe on the lakes” by always wearing a life jacket.
“Accidents can happen in an instant. When they do, there’s little or no time to react. Your decision to wear a life jacket — instead of stowing under a seat — could mean the difference between life and death,” said Tommy Gibson, an Alcoa community relations manager. “We encourage everyone who visits the lakes to play it safe and always wear a life jacket.”
Statistics from the U.S. Coast Guard show that 24 people in North Carolina died in boating accidents during 2006, a 41 increase from 2005. Nationwide, 710 people died in boating accidents, nearly two-thirds of whom were not wearing a life jacket and drowned.
WATER SAFETY GUIDELINES
- Never swim alone
- Stay in designated swim areas
- Always keep a close eye on children and inexperienced swimmers
- Do not swim after drinking alcohol
- Watch for severe weather
BOATING SAFETY GUIDELINES
- Always wear a life jacket
- North Carolina law requires children under 13 to wear an approved life jacket
- Tell someone where you are boating and when you will return
- Do not operate a boat after drinking alcohol
- Watch for severe weather
For More Information
Visit these links for more information about boating safety:
www.safeboatingcampaign.net
www.boatingsidekicks.com
