Swimming safety tips

With the start of the July 4 weekend and a summer recreation season ahead, Duke Energy wants to turn the focus on swimming safety for those who visit Lakes Keowee and Jocassee. “The number of drownings, especially children and teenagers, is tracking way ahead of the typical number for this time of year,” said Scott Jolley, public safety and recreation planning project manager for Duke. “Hot clear weather is bringing a lot of folks to the lakes to cool off, and we thought they could use a reminder of ways to stay safe when they’re swimming.” One tip is to never swim alone. And you can borrow a life jacket. Duke has partnered with stakeholders to install life jacket loaner boards at the swim beaches and boating access areas at South Cove Park and High Falls Park on Lake Keowee.