The Lake Mead National Recreation Area received a generous donation just in time for summer.
The Assistance League of Las Vegas, a non-profit organization that supports underprivileged youth across the valley, recently donated 74 children’s lifejackets to help Lake Mead re-stock its supply stations around the park, in an effort to keep young visitors safe.
“Swimming in the waters here can be hazardous,” said Matt Stark, a law enforcement ranger with Lake Mead NRA. “Lifejackets are critical to protecting lives. That’s why I am grateful to the Assistance League of Las Vegas for providing lifejackets to visitors who swim at the park's beaches.”
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Loaner stations are located throughout the popular beaches, encouraging parents to protect their children when by the water. Kids can borrow the jacket for the day and then return it to the station to allow another family to recreate safely.
Stations can be found at Boulder Beach, Special Events Beach, Canoe/Kayak Beach, Cottonwood Cove, Princess Cove, North Arizona Telephone Cove, and Willow Beach.
According to Lake Mead, drowning is the number one cause of death at national parks across the country and can easily be prevented by using a lifejacket.
Pool toys are not a substitute for lifejackets and are prohibited at Lake Mead National Recreation Area, the park says.
Additional reminders from Lake Mead officials:
- Lifejackets must be worn when on a jet ski
- Children aged 12 and younger must wear a lifejacket on a vessel
- Due to the extremely cold waters between Hoover Dam and mile 43 on Lake Mohave
- Lifejackets must be worn on all paddle crafts
- In other areas of the park, lifejackets must be present on paddle craft and are strongly encouraged to be worn at all times