Local Scouts Learn About Life Vest Safety

Summer and boating season is approaching fast and local Boy Scout Troop #128 spent time learning about life vest safety Saturday.

They weren’t the only ones learning about and using the flotation devices. It’s an international event and thousands across the world take part. Park Ranger Robert Cifranic explained more.

“We’re trying to get as many people as possible wear life jackets on the same day, today the 16th of May. The whole idea is to try and encourage people to wear life jackets. Kind of get them used to the idea if they’ve never worn them before.”

Cifranic says that 90% of water related accidents involve people who failed to wear their life jackets. This is the 7th season for the international event. Scout Matthew Hudnall shares his thoughts on the experience.

“I thought it was actually pretty good because a lot of people drown and its like the ranger said. Everyone just drowns and you under estimate how far you can swim.”

If you would like to learn more about life vest safety, you can visit the Army Corps of Engineers website: www.usace.army.mil