As Independence Day approaches, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is urging caution on the Twin Lakes’ waters. The Fourth of July is normally among the busiest times of the Little Rock District’s lakes and rivers, and the Corps is advising everyone to practice good water safety habits.
The Corps of Engineers is advising boaters and swimmers to wear a life jacket regardless of the lake level. Swimming in open water can be more difficult than in a swimming pool because an individual can tire more quickly and get into trouble due to waves, current, lack of experience, exhaustion or decreased abilities. Conditions can also change quickly in open water. For anyone who doesn’t have a life jacket or forgot to bring one, a limited supply will be available at Bull Shoals and Norfork Lakes.
Parents are also advised to watch their children at all times around the water. The Corps says it can only take 20 seconds for a child to drown.
The four signs of a drowning victim can resemble someone playing in the water. The signs to watch for include the head back, the mouth open gasping for air, no yelling or sound and arms slapping the water resembling an attempt to climb out.
A proper rescue attempt should not include contact with a potential drowning victim unless you are a trained lifeguard. The Corps advises anyone attempting a rescue to reach out to the victim with something to keep a distance or to throw a floatation device to pull them to safety.
For more information, go online to the Corps’ Little Rock District website or Facebook page.
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