Water Safety Weekend

 

A frantic call for help, shocked and shattered family and friends standing on the riverbank, an agonizing search for a victim's body by park rangers and rescue personnel. It is the sad but true reality that every spring we prepare for this tragic, unnecessary, and easily preventable scenario in our beautiful area parks and waterways. Every Memorial Day Weekend the National Park Service at New River Gorge National Park and Preserve and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers at Bluestone Lake presents their annual Water Safety Weekend to help visitors safely prepare for the season's activities on area rivers and lakes.

 

Each Ranger-led activity is designed to demonstrate simple water safety practices that everyone can use to protect their family and friends when recreating in or around area waterways. Proper fitting and use of a PFD (personal flotation device) or life jacket, boating safety on whitewater, flat-water, and lakes, plus safe ways to wade, fish and swim, will be highlighted.

The mission of the National Park Service and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is not only to protect and manage our public waterways, but to protect and educate visitors on safe enjoyment of these beautiful public lands. All programs are FREE. Stay safe on the water!

Check back in early spring for a full schedule of events.