HUNTSVILLE, Ala. — Independence Day is over, but that doesn't change us wanting you to be safe while having fun this summer. We've seen a recent string of unfortunate drownings and close calls in the water in the Tennessee Valley. We've got some tips as it relates to how to stay safe .
ALEA Senior Trooper Brandon Bailey explained that anytime you're in the waters of unfamiliar territory it's important to tread lightly, or in some cases, not at all. "We see a lot of inexperienced boaters or swimmers during the holiday season. During the holiday season is not the best time because you're going to have a highly populated area where, you know, you're not going to have a chance to familiarize yourself with that area, that location, or just different swimming techniques."
Debra Alexander Fisher with the American Red Cross said it's also important to have a "water watcher" and wear a life jacket at all times. "Someone needs to be watching everyone in the water at all times, especially young children. even at the beach, if they're making sandcastles, those tides can come in very fast and sweep a child away."
Alexander Fisher continued that water rescue is totally different from any other type of rescue. " I don't care how experienced a swimmer you are. Unless you've had those techniques taught to you on how to rescue someone in the water, they can drown you."
Senior Trooper Bailey said it's also never a good idea to go into the water at night, and most importantly in the event of any emergency,"... call 911. Absolutely. Or call emergency service. that will get it to the appropriate agency where that be ALEA or the rescue squad."
