A Sergeant assigned to Fort Benning, Georgia, died in a sports, recreation and physical training mishap in Lacey, Washington, 12 July 2021 at 1500 local. The Soldier was kayaking alone on Hicks Lake when the kayak overturned. An unknown person reported the Soldier’s overturned kayak to the Lacey Police Department (LPD). The LPD searched the shoreline, reviewed surveillance video and conducted a shallow-water dive, but were unsuccessful in locating the Soldier. His body was found the following day by the LPD during a deep-water search operation. Specific circumstances of the mishap, including alcohol/drugs as contributing factors and/or if other Soldiers were present, are unknown.
Since FY16, the Army has lost an average of 12 Soldiers a year to off-duty sports, recreation and physical training mishaps. This tragedy was the seventh fatal off-duty sports, recreation and physical training mishap of FY21.
Water Safety Tips:
Wear a kayaking-specific life jacket at all times – No excuses! Regardless of your swimming abilities or kayaking skill level, wearing a well-fitting, properly maintained and suitable buoyancy aid could save your life.
Never drink alcohol and paddle - Alcohol is a depressant; it slows your response times, impairs decision-making and negatively affects coordination.
Always wear appropriate clothing for the conditions (and your needs) - When deciding what to wear for a kayaking trip, you must take into account the time of year, water temperature and weather conditions. Clothing should be able to provide protection from the sun, wind and other elements.
Don’t go solo - A buddy rescue is faster than a self-rescue, and there’s no such thing as a self-tow if you’re hurt
Always tell someone where you are going and when you will be back - They can notify the Coast Guard or other rescue organization if you fail to check in according to the plan.
Learn basic kayaking safety skills - A class will teach the basics such as how to brace in rough water; what equipment is needed for river versus lake kayaking or ocean paddling; essential paddle techniques; and the fundamentals of how to roll a kayak.