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Stay afloat this summer with safety in mind

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Michael A. Cossaboom
  • 20th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
SHAW AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. --  With summer upon the South and temperatures on the rise, many people will find themselves heading to the water for relief from the heat. Before splashing in, there are many things swimmers should be aware of.

"Water safety is extremely important," said Tim Godwin, 20th Force Support Squadron outdoor recreation director. "I take pride in my job to make sure that while I'm on watch, every kid is safe."

As director, Godwin is in charge of the Woodland Pool as well as the rental of watercrafts through the outdoor recreation department.

At the pool on base there is a strict list of pool rules that all customers are encouraged to read and abide by, said Godwin.

"Reading the rules would tremendously decrease the amount of problems we have at the pool," said Godwin. "The lifeguards have a very busy job, so every little bit helps."

There are usually four certified lifeguards on watch at all times. However, they are only a secondary precaution, said Godwin.

"The number one way to avoid having water related deaths is easy," said Godwin. "Learn how to swim."

Godwin and his crew offer swim lessons during the summer.

"It's very important that kids learn how to swim," said Godwin. "Also, if you are going to go swimming, make sure that you're with other people who know how to swim."

Airman 1st Class Aaron Smith, 20th Contracting Squadron contracting administrator, is a frequent swimmer at the base pool and learned at a young age how to swim.

"At a young age it was important that I learned how to swim," said Smith. "A couple times when I went to the pool I would see a lifeguard rescue someone who didn't know how to swim. At that moment I was thankful I knew how to swim"

The Woodland Pool will open May 23 to all military identification card holders. Admission that day will be free.

Daily admission passes and annual passes are available for purchase. For more information, call (803) 965-0450.