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TULSA — As Americans head to lakes and rivers for the 2026 recreation season, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is reminding everyone to make water safety part of every outdoor adventure.
The Corps manages more than 400 lake and river projects nationwide and welcomes millions of visitors each year. While those visits create opportunities for recreation and family memories, preventable tragedies still occur on public waters annually — many involving people not wearing life jackets.
Statistics from the last five years at Corps lake and river projects show that 91% of drowning victims were not wearing a life jacket, 92% were male, 88% were 18 or older, and nearly half were swimming in undesignated areas.
“The recreation areas operated by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers are provided for visitors to get outside, enjoy nature and create wonderful memories,” said Maj. Gen. Jason E. Kelly, USACE deputy commanding general for civil and emergency operations. “If your plans this summer include activities on the water, take appropriate precautions. Wear a life jacket, swim in designated areas, recreate responsibly and encourage your family and friends to do the same.”
“Memorial Day weekend is the unofficial start of summer,” said Col. Jessica Goffena, commander of the USACE Tulsa District. “Please remember to wear a properly fitted life jacket, stay aware of changing weather conditions and make responsible decisions on the water to help prevent tragedies and ensure everyone returns home safely.”
The Corps encourages visitors to follow these water safety reminders:
- Wear a properly fitted life jacket when boating, fishing, paddling or spending time near the water.
- Never swim alone and always swim in designated areas when available.
- Keep children within arm’s reach whenever they are near open water.
- Avoid alcohol while boating or swimming.
- Be aware that water temperatures can remain dangerously cold even during warm weather.
- Use engine cutoff devices while boating to reduce the risk of runaway vessels and propeller injuries.
- Learn your swimming limits and understand that open water conditions differ from pools.
More water safety tips are available at PleaseWearIt.com and on the Please Wear It Facebook and Instagram pages. Information about Corps recreation sites is available at CorpsLakes.us.