Memorial Day weekend is coming up and whether we are about to hit the pool, the beach or float down a river we should always have a healthy respect for water. Beginning swimmers should wear water wings or life preservers to help them stay afloat until they gain experience and confidence (boaters are also required to wear life preservers too). The American Red Cross recommends that we should always swim with a friend. Beginners should also swim where there are lifeguards on duty. You should also test the water before you dive right in. It's safest to enter the water feet first until you know for sure the water is deep enough and that there aren’t any rocks or hazards beneath the surface. On open water, sand bars may look like a safe place to party but constant current creates hidden holes, drop offs and trenches that could cause even strong swimmers to panic or drown. Locally the Fayetteville's Public Swimming Pool opens for the season Memorial Day weekend and provides a safe, clean place to swim. Swimming lessons are also available during the summer. Find out more through the Fayetteville Parks and Recreation Departments portal.
