Be wise around water this summer

PERRY, Ga. — With temperatures rising and summer in full swing on Wednesday, many of us are looking to beat the heat and stay cool. Many of us stay inside and ramp up the air conditioner, but for those who are more outdoorsy, summer plans may involve a trip to the river, or a dip in the pool.

With water comes the risk of drowning, so we reached out to Houston County Fire Department Chief Christopher Stoner, who provided tips on staying safe around any body of water.

Stoner said historically, the agency responds to many calls over the summer related to drowning; Ultimately, he suggested using life jackets when swimming and learning to swim.

In the case of swimming pools, Stoner said the calls involved are mostly related to children, and can happen anytime of year, so he suggested keeping a close eye while outside and locking up pools when not in use.

“Keep those areas secure, [with] fences, gates, those sort of things,” Stoner advised. “Don’t let your children be out there unsupervised. If you’re not an experienced swimmer, take lessons.”

For bodies of water like rivers, lakes and the ocean, Stoner cautioned that these can be unpredictable, adding that drowning calls in these areas mostly affect adults.

To recreate safely in these settings, Stoner advised to have experience swimming, as well as floatation devices. Specifically at the beach, he said to follow their instructions, adding that flags are posted that show current conditions.

“Make sure you have appropriate gear, like life jackets … to make sure you reduce the risk of drowning,” Stoner said.

He added later, “Even if you feel like you are a good swimmer, currents can change and pull you under the water, can push you in directions you don’t want to go, push you away from your boat, or the bank … having a life jacket will at least help you stay afloat during that time.”

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