As they gears up for a frenzy of aquatic activities in the coming months, the Ohio Department of Natural Resources has stepped up with a timely reminder for boaters and paddlers not to put safety on the back burner while they're having fun in the sun. According to a recent news release, ODNR is pushing the envelope on water safety during May's National Water Safety Month, insisting on the importance of life jackets and engine cut-off switches.
It's like this, soon as the temperatures start to rise and everyone is itching to hit the water, safety precautions tend to slip minds, but ODNR Director Mary Mertz isn't having any of it, she swears by two simple lifesavers, strapping on a life jacket and hooking up an engine cut-off switch, "Every time you head out to paddle or enjoy a day on a boat, safety needs to come first," Mertz articulated, emphasizing that wearing a life jacket and using an engine cut-off switch are two simple steps that can prevent tragedies and save lives as she said "We want everyone to enjoy Ohio’s waterways — and that means making smart choices before your adventure begins." According to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources.
For the landlocked and the sea-faring alike, the message from ODNR rings out unambiguously, before you dive into adventure, invest a heartbeat considering what could go wrong and prepare accordingly. Folks planning to navigate these natural resources must remember that water, as inviting as it may look, can turn treacherous unexpectedly, and being outfitted with the right safety equipment could literally be the line between returning home and not.
ODNR's campaign is a step beyond mere advisement, it's a call to take action and to think twice about what we take for granted, because the water doesn't know you, or care about your stories and summertime laughs, it's impartial to whether or not you make it back home unless you are prepared with essentials that too often are shrugged off until they're sorely needed, as such safety isn't about spoiling the fun—it’s about ensuring there’s more fun to come.
