Boating, Water Safety, Murphy and You Published June 11, 2010 By 341st Missile Wing Safety Office staff MALMSTROM AIR FORCE BASE, Mont. -- Remember Murphy's Law? "Anything that can go wrong will go wrong." A pessimistic viewpoint, yes, but it is the mindset to have when planning boating or any other water activities. Before beginning any water-related activity, take time to brainstorm what could go wrong and take measures to prevent it. For example, if you think you may be walking on slippery surfaces such as river beds or boat ladders, bring slip-proof shoes designed for that activity. Do you expect sunny weather? Packing sunscreen and a hat can save you from a painful and aesthetically unpleasing burn. Sunglasses save your eyes from the glare on the water; especially important if you are the one driving the boat! Might you or your loved ones end up on or in the water, whether by accident or design? Examine your life jacket supply and make any necessary adjustments before departing. Do you have one life jacket for each person plus an emergency one for throwing? Do they still fit the person(s) they are intended for and are they the right type for the particular type of waters you'll be facing? Life jackets come in various models tailor made for specific activities. For example, the Type I Personal Flotation Device, recommended for use in offshore or rough waters where rescue may be delayed, will turn an unconscious person over onto their back. Type II jackets are suitable for near shore or calm water activities in areas with a good chance of fast rescue. The Type III jacket, approved by the Coast Guard and designed as a water skiing vest, is designed to fit snugly so that in a fall it will not slide up on the skier and pin his or her arms in a useless position, or possibly be forced completely off by the pressure of the water. Type IV is a throwable PFD, for that unintentional dip into the water. Stop by Malmstrom's Outdoor Recreation Center and check out their lifejacket display. They will be more than happy to help you determine which jacket is right for your activity and how it needs to fit for safety. When used properly, all PFDs have excellent life-saving potential. What could improve your chances of survival even more? Knowing how to swim! Conveniently enough, Malmstrom's Outdoor Recreation Center offers swimming lessons for all ages. According to Steven Surls, a surprising number of adult Airmen and family members do not know how to swim. However, adults rarely sign up for lessons. Not surprising since most learn to swim in childhood, and learning this basic skill as an adult alongside children may be a source of embarrassment. To create a more comfortable learning environment for adults, Mr. Surls is open to scheduling an adults-only swimming class for after duty hours or on the weekend. If you are an adult military member or dependent and would like to learn how to swim, stop by Outdoor Recreation or e-mail Mr. Surls at steven.surls@malmstrom.af.mil. Adult classes will be scheduled based upon demand. Regardless of which type water activities you choose to participate in, plan for safety, remember Murphy's Law and prepare accordingly. Editor's Notes: Lifejacket information extracted from http://www.boatingsidekicks.com/lifejackets.htm.