Community Corner

Water, Boating on Tap for Your Holiday Weekend?

Wear a life jacket and follow other swimming and boating safety precautions on area lakes, say U.S. Army Corps of Engineers officials.

Planning to hit the lake this Memorial Day weekend?

Be prepared by thinking water and boating safety before the fun starts on Lake Lanier or Lake Allatoona, officials with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers' Mobile District say.

Recreational lake goers can find .

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“We welcome visitors and their families to enjoy the use of our lakes and recreational areas this holiday weekend but want them to be safe by wearing life jackets,” spokesman Lance Davis said in a release. “A child can drown in less than 30 seconds; an adult in 60 seconds, but it takes less than a minute to put on a life jacket. A life jacket can save your life if you wear it right.”

Brush up on and follow these tips to promote water and boating safety:

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Lifejacket: Wear It Right

  •  Check the label—Should be U.S. Coast Guard approved and proper size;
  • Check for damage—No broken parts, mold or rips in fabric;
  • Fasten up—Fasten all buckles, zippers and straps;
  • Check for proper fit—Lift shoulders and make sure it does not slip above the chin or ears; and
  • Wear it—A life jacket only works if it’s worn!

Water Safety Tips

  • Wear a life jacket because it could save your life;
  • Learn how to swim, but be reminded that even good swimmers can drown, so please know your limits;
  • Swim with a buddy;
  • Swim in designated areas only;
  • Use your head and go feet first into the water;
  • Leave the water at the first sign of bad weather; and
  • Watch your children—no reading, phoning or napping.

Boating Safety Tips

  • Always wear a life jacket when you are on a boat;
  • Always boat soberly;
  • Always boat with a friend;
  • Use your running lights from dusk until dawn when you are on the water;
  • Always let someone on shore know where you plan to take the boat;
  • Check the weather before you put the boat in the water;
  • Know and follow the “water rules of the road;” and
  • Learn how to swim.

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