Rain and flooding means lakes more dangerous than usual

Drowning deaths in Oklahoma dropped significantly betwen 2013 and 2014 on Army Corps Lakes, and they'd like to keep that trend going.

But Corps spokesman Brannen Parrish tells KRMG the recent heavy rains and flooding have increased the danger level for boaters and swimmers.

"The shoreline may have changed a little bit since the water level has risen," he told KRMG, "so just because it comes back down doesn't mean that it's exactly the way it was prior to all the rainfall."

Debris that was picked up by the rising waters could lurk just under the surface, posing a potential hazard that could snag swimmers and damage boats, he said.

There are also areas where the water's still high, and could be concealing signs or other structures which also pose a danger.

He urges everyone to wear a life jacket at all times when in or on the water.

"'I know how to swim' doesn't do you much good if you're unconscious," he warns.

There are stations at many swimming and multi-use areas where people can borrow a life jacket, Parrish added.

He also stressed the importance of getting a life jacket that fits properly, and is U.S. Coast Guard certified.

If it's too small, it could slip off of you in the water; if it's too large, it may not support your weight properly.

Other important tips:

• Drinking alcohol while piloting any watercraft is not only illegal, it's unsafe
• Never swim or boat alone
• Never jump into shallow, murky, or unknown water
• Stay away from dams and other restricted areas
• If a storm threatens, leave the water immediately