By Enid Lake Park Rangers

With warmer temperatures and the first major holiday of summer only a week away, the recreation season at Enid Lake is in full swing.

Memorial Day falls on Monday, May 30 this year and is traditionally the start of the summer vacation season. Whether you spend the long weekend water skiing, swimming, grilling, or just relaxing at home please remember to take the time to acknowledge the real reason for the holiday.

Memorial Day was first observed May 30, 1868 under the name “Decoration Day” to honor fallen soldiers from the American Civil War by placing decorations on their graves.

Following World War I the honor was extended to fallen soldiers of all American Wars. The name Memorial Day slowly became the preferred name for the holiday following World War II. Please take the time this busy holiday weekend to remember those who have died to secure the rights you have and enjoy and to thank those who have or are currently serving in the military.

While boating on area lakes remember, the lifejacket mandate is still in place at Arkabutla, Sardis, Enid and Grenada Lakes.  All persons must wear a U.S. Coast Guard approved type I, II, or III life jacket at all times in boats less than 16 feet in length and non powered boats.

The same applies to all persons swimming outside of designated swimming areas. Enid Lake has four designated swimming areas including: Hickory Ridge, Persimmon Hill, Long Branch and Plum Point. These designated swimming areas are marked by orange cylinder floats and also have a variety of safety features including: depth poles, rescue stations, signs with safety messages, and Hickory Ridge and Persimmon Hill designated swimming areas provide loaner life jackets.

On boats 16 feet to 26 feet in length a type I, II, or II life jacket must be worn while the boat is under power of the main propulsion unit.  While lifejackets are required under these circumstances it is never a bad idea to wear them anytime you are participating in water based recreation.  

If water skiing, wakeboarding, or tubing is part of you plans to escape the heat always remember that a spotter over the age of 10 is required in addition to the person being towed and the driver. Also be sure to check all of your equipment to ensure that it is still in good operable condition after being stored over the winter.  While towing someone behind a boat pay extra attention to boats in the surrounding area and avoid operating in close proximity to them.

Maybe swimming or relaxing at one of our beaches is more your style?

If this is the case a few simple precautions will help to ensure your trip is an enjoyable one.  The most important is NEVER swim alone regardless of your swimming abilities. Accidents can occur at anytime to anyone; having a swim buddy could save your life.  Never swim outside of designated swimming areas unless you are wearing a lifejacket.  Always be mindful of young children and ensure they do not get in water too deep for them.  Remember to avoid prolonged exposure to the sun and always drink plenty of water and wear sunscreen.

Following the recent outbreaks of severe weather in north Mississippi many of us have gained a new respect for the power of Mother Nature.  While participating in an outdoor recreational activity you should always take the weather into consideration. Always check the weather forecast when planning outdoor activities.  Even a well planned trip can be ruined by rapid and unpredictable changes in the weather, so be prepared to take action.  If you are in or around water and you hear thunder you should get away from the water immediately and seek shelter in a building or vehicle.  If thunder is close enough for you to hear then you could be in danger of being struck by lightning.  High winds can also occur unexpectedly.  If you are boating and high wind condition occurs, you should head for the nearest shore immediately.  Point the bow of your boat into the wind and head into waves at a 45 degree angle.

Whether you plan to beat the heat this holiday weekend by boating or swimming at the lake, practicing good water safety and watching the weather will help to ensure a safe and happy ending.  

For more information please contact the Enid Lake Field Office at 662-563-4571 or visit www.mvk.usace.army.mil/Lakes/ms/enid.