Local Corps rangers recognized for water safety

By Donna Hilton
Published: Wednesday, May 7, 2008 2:18 PM CDT
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The DeGray Lake Water Safety Team was presented an award as one of the best water safety teams in the world at the recent National Water Safety Congress (NWSC) convention. A team from each of the organization's six regions is chosen to receive award.

Arkansas is part of Region 4, which includes Louisiana, Missouri, New Mexico, Oklahoma and Texas. The NWSC's annual convention was last month in San Diego.

Established in 1951, the purpose of the NWSC is to reduce water-related injuries and fatalities, said Brian Westfall, natural resource specialist at the DeGray Lake Field office of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. The purpose of the convention each year is to recognize all partners in water safety, he said.

The award recognizes the rangers at the Corps office for their efforts in promoting water safety. The judges took into account all the efforts of the rangers, including their personal contacts with visitors, the use of billboards, coloring books, demonstrations and other programs designed to reach persons of any age who visit the lake.

"Our goal is to reach every visitor, and to make sure everyone returns home after a safe time at the lake," Westfall said.

The staff uses a variety of materials, including stickers and coloring books to teach water safety to children. "Reaching the kids is a real good way to reach adults," Westfall said.

Despite the recognition they've received, the team at the DeGray field office continues to work diligently to make the lake a source of safe fun for everyone.

National Safe Boating Week is May 17-23, Westfall said. "That's set so we can promote water safety big time before Memorial Day, which is traditionally the kickoff for water activities each summer. We're asking everyone to 'get on board for water safety' during the week."

Crews from other locations in the state will be on DeGray Lake on May 17 to help spread the safety message, Westfall said. "We'll be talking to everyone about water safety, including the use of personal flotation devices, which are your best defense against drowning." The theme for this year's safety project is a photo of a life jacket with the words "Wear It."

Receiving the Water Safety Team award has gotten the whole DeGray Lake field office revved up for the summer season, Westfall said. "If you recognize people for their efforts, they're going to be willing to continue to work hard."