Americans increasingly head to the water for recreation. We have two lakes close by which a lot of Floyd County folks frequent. I am always afraid when there has been a drowning, it could be someone in our community.

It is essential that everyone in or near the water, both the novice and the experienced, practice water safety habits, including wearing life jackets. Drowning is the leading cause of fatalities involving recreational boating. Approximately 88 percent of people who died in boating accidents were not wearing personal flotation devices (some types are called “life jackets”) at the time.

PERSONAL FLOTATION DEVICES

* Everyone in a boat must have a Coast Guard-approved PFD (personal flotation device) or life jacket that is either worn or easily accessible. Each boat should also have a PFD that can be thrown.

* Anyone participating in a water sport, with the exception of surfing and diving, must wear a PFD as well.

* A PFD provides flotation to keep your head above water and helps you stay face up in the water to increase your chances for survival and rescue.

A PFD SHOULD:

* Fit securely enough so a child does not slip through when picked up by the shoulders.

* Have a strap between the legs and extra neck support for younger children.

* Not be considered a substitute for swimming ability.

Blow-up toys, water wings and air mattresses are NOT substitutes for a PFD.

PRACTICE SAFE BOATING HABITS:

* Anyone participating in a water sport should know how to swim.

* Never boat alone. Only allow children to go boating when an adult is with them.

* When getting in, step into the middle of the boat to keep it from tipping and stay seated.

* Never sit on the edge of a boat or hang your arms or feet over the edge, it could tip over. If the boat tips over and it floats, hold on to it until help arrives.

* Never carry more people in a boat than the stated capacity.

* Keep decks and spaces clear of clutter and trash.

* Check weather and water conditions before boating. If you hear thunder or see lightning, head for shore. Never boat in the dark.

* Follow the 1/3 rule for fuel: plan on 1/3 of the gas to get to where you are going; 1/3 to get back, and the remaining 1/3 to use.

* Never consume alcohol when swimming, boating, or participating in any water sport.

* All boats should be equipped with operational lights, a horn, and fire extinguisher.

* Follow the federal and state regulations for registering your boat and displaying registration numbers.