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ST. PAUL - With warmer weather bringing in the traditional summer outdoors activities, many families will head out to the rivers and lakes during the upcoming Memorial Day weekend.

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers wants to remind everyone to be safe as they enjoy their favorite water based activity this summer and urges everyone to wear an appropriately fitting life jacket, or personal flotation device, while on the water.

Most states have laws that require children to wear their life jacket while on the water and compliance is high; however, adults continue not wear them. As a result, the United States averages about 700 boating fatalities nationwide.

Corps Park Ranger Scott Tichy said, "When I talk to adults about life jackets, they all say 'If I need it, I'll grab it.' That's like saying, 'If I'm in a car accident, I'll throw on my seatbelt.'"[[In-content Ad]]If you haven't shopped for a life jacket in a while you might be surprised by the variety of new styles available. There are many designs that are far more comfortable than the choices we have had in the past. Please spend a little time and find a life jacket that is comfortable and make a commitment to wear it while on the water. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers wants your help to bring that 700 fatality number closer to zero.

Have a happy and safe summer! For more information on how to be safe while on the water, please visit: http://watersafety.usace.army.mil.

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