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When my father was stationed at Shaw AFB, he had the burning desire to become a river rat. He wanted to spend every moment out of the cockpit on his new boat, the Sea Wolf. Being a good family man, he wanted his family to spend all of their time with him on this boat. His entire squadron also lived on this boat with us. Water-skiing at Lake Wateree became a way of life. Everyone had their polished wood skis, white bathing suits, and orange life jackets. If you could walk, you could ski…that was my father’s motto. I still remember the look on my father’s face when he found out one of the new lieutenants came from the Cypress Garden, Florida area. Visions of learning all the water show tricks floated around in that man’s head. As a result, I learned to slalom, do jumps, and not swallow a lot of freshwater when I fell. Those were great times. I am thankful that my father with all of his exuberance for a good time managed to keep us safe by enforcing some basic safety rules such as wearing life jackets and learning to swim.

Below are some basic water safety rules :

• Learn to swim. You are never to old to take lessons. Swimming programs are available on most Department of Defense installations…sign up for classes!
• Never swim alone. Use the buddy system.
• Select a supervised area. A trained lifeguard who can help in an emergency is the best safety factor. Even good swimmers can have an unexpected medical emergency in the water.
• Select an area that is clean and well maintained. A clean bathhouse, clean restrooms, and a litter-free environment show the management's concern for your health and safety.
• Select an area that has good water quality and safe natural conditions. Murky water, hidden underwater objects, unexpected drop-offs, and aquatic plant life are hazards. Water pollution can cause health problems for swimmers. Strong tides, big waves, and currents can turn a fun event into tragedy.
• Do not swim in areas that has boat or jet ski traffic. Stay away from areas that are used for boat refueling.
• Make sure the water is deep enough before entering headfirst. Too many swimmers are seriously injured every year by entering headfirst into water that is too shallow. A feet first entry is much safer than diving.
• Be sure rafts and docks are in good condition. A well run open-water facility maintains its rafts and docks in good condition with no loose boards or exposed nails. Never swim under a raft or dock. Always look before jumping off a dock or raft to be sure no one is in the way.
• The areas close to dam structures are very treacherous with water currents and high voltage. Stay away!!
• If boating or skiing is involved, be sure to wear an approved flotation device. Make sure there are enough devices for each person involved. Ensure the devices are in good condition.
• Check weather and water conditions prior to going out on the water. Keep a close watch out while on the water. Weather conditions can change fast. Lightning, high winds, and choppy waves pose major safety risks.