Duke Energy offers Swimming Safety Tips

With July 4th weekend approaching and a busy summer recreation season anticipated, Duke Energy encourages a focus on swimming safety for visitors to Lakes Keowee and Jocassee. “The number of drownings, especially children and teenagers, is tracking way ahead of the typical number for this time of year,” said Scott Jolley, public safety and recreation planning project manager for Duke Energy. “Hot, clear weather is bringing a lot of folks to the lakes to cool off, and we thought they could use a reminder of ways to stay safe when they’re swimming.” Most people are well aware of the dangers of drinking and driving, but Captain Mike Isaacs of the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources reminds people that swimming or boating while impaired can be just as dangerous. “The heat can increase alcohol’s effect,” Isaacs said. “It can impair swimming skills and cause dehydration. Drink responsibly and have a designated boat driver.” Life jackets are essential for water safety, especially for young or inexperienced swimmers. Duke Energy has partnered with a variety of stakeholder organizations to install life jacket loaner boards at the swim beaches and boating access areas at South Cove Park and High Falls Park on Lake Keowee. Life jackets in a variety of sizes are available for temporary use. Visitors may check out a life jacket at no charge and then return it to the kiosk when done. Life jacket loaner boards are run on an honor system, and availability will vary.
Additional safety tips; take swimming lessons, never swim alone, remember that certain health conditions, fatigue and temperature changes can cause cramping, keep a life line with a throw ring nearby to throw to a swimmer who appears to be in trouble, consider taking turns on the shoreline so there is always someone available to throw out the lifeline and remember that it is illegal and unsafe to swim at boating access areas.