FORT STEWART, Ga. (July 12, 2016) - Soldiers and Civilians of 2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division, spoke about summer fun and their safety concerns at Fort Stewart, Georgia, July 12.
Now that the summer is here, more people are flocking to local waters such as pools, lakes and ponds.
“I like the summer because I get to take my kids out to the beach and enjoy the sun,” said Sgt. Joseph Nicely, Operations Sergeant of Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 2nd IBCT, 3rd ID.
“There are many summer activities such as; water skiing, boating, fishing, going to the beach, hunting, grilling and many more,” explained Robert Perry, 2nd IBCT safety manager.
Perry explained, if you are going to boat or fish, have a float plan and tell someone your plan. A Float plan is the route one will take and any stops being made. By telling someone the plan of travel, it ensures a higher probability of rescue if something goes wrong.
“Don't drink and boat or drive, have a designated driver,” Perry explained.
From 2005-2014, there were an average of 3,536 fatal unintentional drowning's (non-boating related) annually in the United States — about ten deaths per day. An additional 332 people died each year from drowning in boating-related incidents, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
“Never swim alone and try to stay in designated swim areas with lifeguards,” said Perry.
When going to the beach, it can be a fun and safe experience if preparation and planning are conducted before the trip.
Jacob Burton, Tybee Island, Ga. lifeguard explained, “Bring footwear, drink lots of water and be cautious of rip currents.”
Perry explained, anytime a Soldier is lost, it directly impacts unit morale and has a devastating effect on the family.
“We can put out flyers and do safety briefings,” said Perry. “We can do all those things, but it does no good if we don’t follow the guidance. Each individual has to make the right choice.”
Date Taken: | 07.12.2016 |
Date Posted: | 07.21.2016 13:02 |
Story ID: | 204618 |
Location: | FORT STEWART, GEORGIA, US |
Web Views: | 26 |
Downloads: | 1 |
This work, 2nd IBCT summer water safety, by SPC Corey Foreman, identified by DVIDS, must comply with the restrictions shown on https://www.dvidshub.net/about/copyright.