Glasgow-Barren County Emergency Management shares swim safety tips for open water

BARREN COUNTY, Ky. – The U.S Army Corps of Engineers and Glasgow-Barren County Emergency Management stress the importance of open water safety this summer.

Compared to swimming in a pool, open water has currents, waves and natural obstacles. A swimmer is more likely to experience exhaustion faster than if were enclosed waters.

USACE states that it takes one minute for an adult to drown and only 20 seconds for a child to drown. When an individual drowns, it is typically silent, so it’s important to stay vigilant.

While doing water activities or swimming, never do it alone. Glasgow-Barren County EMA suggests to always wear a fitted life jacket while out at Barren River Lake.

Do not swim under the influence of alcohol and drugs because anything can happen in a second. Be proactive with your company and ask others to practice safe swimming.

Watch a USACE video on inflatable jackets below.

For more information, visit the U.S Army Corp of Engineers website.