Protecting Yourself on the Lake this Summer

Lakes are beautiful and serene bodies of water that attract people of all ages for a variety of recreational activities. However, they can also be dangerous, especially when people underestimate the risks associated with swimming and boating. Drowning is a serious concern in lakes, and it's important to be aware of the potential dangers and take necessary precautions to stay safe. 

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), drowning is the fourth leading cause of unintentional injury death in the United States, with an average of 4,000 fatal unintentional drownings each year, which accounts for 22 unintentional drownings a day. Of these drownings, about one in five are children under the age of 14. While not all of these deaths occur in lakes, it's important to recognize that drowning can happen anywhere there is water.

Lakes present unique challenges for swimmers and boaters. Unlike swimming pools, lakes are often much larger, and deeper, and have varying water temperatures and currents. Additionally, lakes are not as well-regulated as public swimming pools, which means that there may not be lifeguards or warning signs indicating potential hazards. 

At Pracht Injury Lawyers, we wanted to provide tips for keeping you and your family safe this summer while swimming in the local lakes of Anderson, Lake Hartwell and Lake Keowee.

• Know your swimming ability: It's important to be honest with yourself about your swimming abilities. Don't overestimate your ability to swim in deep water, especially if you're not a confident swimmer. 
• Wear a life jacket: Whether you're swimming or boating, it's important to wear a properly fitting life jacket. In fact, the CDC reports that wearing a life jacket can reduce the risk of drowning by up to 80%. 
• Swim with a buddy: Never swim alone in a lake. Always have a friend or family member with you, and keep an eye on each other while in the water. Stay close to shore: Stick to designated swimming areas, and don't venture too far from shore. If you're boating, be aware of shallow areas and underwater hazards. 
• Be aware of weather conditions: Check the weather forecast before heading to the lake, and be aware of changing conditions. Thunderstorms can quickly roll in, and strong winds can create dangerous waves. 
• Don't drink and swim: Alcohol impairs your judgment and reaction time, making it more difficult to swim or stay afloat. Avoid drinking while swimming or boating. 
• Learn CPR: If someone does experience a near-drowning or drowning incident, knowing CPR can be the difference between life and death. Take a CPR class to learn this life-saving skill. 

While lakes can be a wonderful place to enjoy outdoor activities, it's important to understand the risks associated with drowning and take necessary precautions to stay safe. By following these tips and staying aware of potential hazards, you can enjoy a fun and safe day on the lake.