[OSMB-News] News Release -The Water is Calling, So Go Prepared

[Ashley Massey]

For Immediate Release	Date: Wednesday, July 22, 2009

The Water is Calling, So Go Prepared

	The Oregon State Marine Board and Parks and Recreation
Department encourage people to seek reprieve from the heat this week by
visiting a state park and local waterbody, but keep in mind that the
water in many locations is still running swift and cold. 
	“There’s just the right amount of water volume for all kinds
of fun, but that also means the water may still be cold with a strong
current,” says Ashley Massey, Public Information Officer for the
Marine Board.  “If you’re boating, make sure everyone has a properly
fitting life jacket on board.  All children 12 and younger are required
to wear a life jacket when the boat is underway.”  Massey adds,
“Even if you plan to go wade in the rivers’ edge, make sure you
are wearing a life jacket.  Unseen drop offs, combined with swift
current, can easily take people by surprise, with tragic outcomes. 
It’s especially important with people who do not know how to
swim.”
	Massey advises that if you do find yourself in a fast moving
current, “make sure to float with your feet pointing downstream and
have your life jacket straps secured to the jacket so they don’t get
tangled in any underwater debris.”  One misperception is that if a
person is in distress, they can call out for help.  “Actually, when a
person is panicking, struggling for breath, they can’t scream.  This
is why it’s so important to always keep track of your friends and
family when you’re around the water. If you find yourself in the water
unexpectedly, the key is to try to relax and float.  You’ll be able to
catch your breath and hopefully get attention if you need it,” Massey
explains.   
	Other items you should bring along include sunscreen and plenty
of water. Avoid drinking alcohol.  Alcohol dehydrates the body and will
easily impair a person’s judgment, vision and coordination.  “The
reality is, people drinking when they’re out on the water generally
take risks they normally wouldn’t take, and sometimes, with dangerous
consequences,” Massey adds.  “Being outdoors catching rays is
relaxing enough.  Save the drinking for when you’re safe at home.”
	For more information about boating safety and local parks, visit
www.boatoregon.com and http://www.oregon.gov/OPRD/PARKS/index.shtml.
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Ashley A. Massey
Public Information Officer
Oregon State Marine Board
503-378-2623
503-378-8587 ext. 82623
ashley.massey at state.or.us

"Go with the flow...and don't fight the current."