A 13-year-old boy named Kevin Lopez drowned at Jordan Lake in Pittsboro, North Carolina. This tragic incident serves as a reminder to prioritize water safety, especially during busy holiday weekends. The Chatham County Sheriff’s Office urges everyone, regardless of swimming ability, to wear a life jacket while on the water. So far this year, nine people have drowned in the lake. ABC11 Raleigh-Durham reported
Tragic Drowning Incident Claims Life of 13-Year-Old at Jordan Lake in North Carolina
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PITTSBORO, N.C. (WTVD) — A heartbreaking incident unfolded at Jordan Lake on Sunday, resulting in the tragic drowning of a 13-year-old boy. The Chatham County Sheriff’s Office confirmed the devastating news, identifying the victim as Kevin Lopez, a resident of Locust, North Carolina.
This unfortunate incident marks the ninth drowning fatality at Jordan Lake this year, highlighting the need for increased water safety measures. Sheriff Mike Roberson expressed his condolences to the victim’s family, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing water safety, especially during busy holiday weekends when waterways are bustling with activity.
While state law mandates that individuals younger than 13 wear a life jacket while on a recreational vessel, both Sheriff Roberson and NC Wildlife strongly recommend that everyone, regardless of age and swimming ability, wear a life jacket when participating in water activities. They emphasize that even the most skilled swimmers can find themselves incapacitated during unforeseen accidents.
The recent tragedy at Jordan Lake follows another drowning incident less than two weeks ago at Falls Lake. A 35-year-old man lost his life after a canoe he was on with friends capsized. These incidents serve as stark reminders of the inherent risks associated with water activities and the necessity of taking necessary precautions.
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As the Labor Day holiday brings people to the water, many are exercising caution while enjoying their time. North Carolina residents, such as Emily Topping from Raleigh, acknowledge the importance of water safety and understand that summer is not yet over. Mitchell Dudley, another Raleigh resident, expresses that Labor Day is a time for being on the water, spending time with friends, and engaging in recreational fishing.
To ensure the safety of individuals engaging in water activities, the Chatham County Sheriff’s Office has shared a list of essential safety tips:
- Always designate a responsible adult to supervise children near water, as drowning can occur quickly and silently.
- Stay within designated swimming areas.
- Enroll in swimming lessons to enhance water competence and confidence.
- Avoid alcohol and impairing drugs when participating in water activities, as they can impair judgment and coordination.
- Monitor weather conditions and refrain from water activities during storms or adverse weather.
- If boating, ensure that all safety equipment, including life jackets, is on board and in good condition. Adhere to boating regulations and guidelines.
By following these safety guidelines, individuals can minimize the risks associated with water activities and prevent further tragic incidents.
The Chatham County Sheriff’s Office urges everyone to prioritize water safety and remain vigilant when engaging in water-related activities. These precautions, combined with responsible supervision and adherence to regulations, can help ensure the well-being of individuals enjoying the water.
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