GALVESTON, Texas - As the busy Labor Day holiday weekend approaches, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Galveston District is continuing to concentrate on water safety outreach at lakes, rivers, projects and public beaches after a deadly start to the recreation season at USACE parks nationwide.

As of Aug. 14, 177 people have died while recreating on Corps-owned property nationwide this fiscal year compared to 128 at this time last year – a more than 38 percent increase. Most of these fatalities were from drowning. USACE officials report that more than 90 percent of drowning victims at USACE parks were not wearing life jackets.

“It is imperative that we educate the public about water safety, as drowning is the number two fatality in the U.S. for children 13 and younger with vehicle accidents being number one,” said Col. Christopher W. Sallese, USACE Galveston District commander. “The arrival of the Labor Day holiday weekend will bring an increased level of outdoor activities throughout Texas, especially with outdoor recreation involving water activities at public beaches, in swimming pools, while boating and engaging in other aquatic-related activities.”

According to Sallese, the Corps realizes the important role that education plays in saving lives and requests the public wear life jackets and read warning signs when recreating on a lake, river or beach this busy weekend.

Since the beginning of the year, USACE Galveston District staff has engaged in an aggressive water safety campaign to minimize the potential for loss of life due to drowning. The campaign includes launching a series of radio public service announcements to inform visitors of Corps’ recreation facilities how to prevent drowning, inspections of Corps-maintained jetties for proper safety signage, and partnering with community leaders, volunteers and the public to improve public safety at Corps’ lakes, recreational areas and facilities.

“This year, 68 children and teens have already drowned in Texas, with 13 in the Greater Houston area,” said Kris Brown, natural resources specialist and park ranger for the USACE Galveston District. “We understand the important role that education plays in saving lives and we’re working with our partners to extend our drowning prevention knowledge, skills, expertise, and services and help to develop and implement effective strategies to promote education and prevent downing.”

USACE officials encourage visitors to check local water and weather conditions and pay attention to recreation warnings, such as river closures from local emergency services offices, prior to entering the water. Officials stress the single most important item a person can do on the water to reduce risk is to wear a life jacket. USACE will continue its efforts to promote boating and water safety and with the public's support will work to reduce the risk and save lives.

USACE is the nation’s largest federal provider of outdoor recreation, hosting more than 370 million visits per year at 422 recreation parks in 43 states. The Galveston District has a long history of leading the way in safety initiatives for the protection of life and property and is available to assist in water safety educational engagements by calling 281-497-0740.

For the USACE recreation area near you visit www.CorpsLakes.us or for more news and information visit www.swg.usace.army.mil. Find us on Facebook, www.facebook.com/GalvestonDistrict.