With another holiday weekend underway, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is urging residents and tourists to use caution on area waterways. The Corps says Labor Day weekend is among the top three busiest weekends of the year at the region’s lakes and rivers, and they give tips on how to avoid accidents.
Park rangers caution that parks, lakes and rivers will be congested, and they’re asking visitors to be courteous while waiting at boat ramps, sharing beaches or traveling waterways. Lakes are experiencing lower levels, and boaters should be aware of submerged stumps and shallow areas in addition to obeying boating laws.
Rangers are also stressing the importance of life jackets. Visitors arriving at Corps lakes without a life jacket can check with a gate attendant or a volunteer camp host about a loaner.
Park rangers urge anyone swimming to do so only in designated areas. Do not swim alone, and don’t rely on inner tubes, water wings or other toys to stay afloat.
For family outings, the Corps is advising children to be watched by their parents at all times. The Corps is also asking anyone planning to be on or in the water to not drink alcohol.
Recreation information can be found online at swl.usace.army.mil.
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