Memorial Day weekend is to remember those brave men and women that gave their lives for our freedom. That's the dictonary definition if you will... (Don't go looking it up expecting to find that exact wording) But, ever since I can remember it has been the unofficial kickoff to summer.

I have been to beaches in the past, but this weekend I chose to stay on Lake Wedowee. (It might be due to my profession as a real estate agent.) Anyway, even though the lake is down about 3 feet there were still a great deal of people on the lake this weekend either boating or riding a personal watercraft. There weren't (to my knowledge) any serious accidents on Lake Wedowee this weekend, but there was at least one fatality most people might have heard about by now. Marquise Hill, NFL football player, drowned after an apparent jetski accident on Lake Pontchartrain in Louisiana Sunday. It has also been reported he was not wearing a life jacket.

My sincere condolonces go to Mr. Hill's family during this sad time. But, it can also be a learning lesson. Wearing a life jacket is essential to riding a personal watercraft. It doesn't matter if you are an excellent swimmer or you are going just a little ways. ACCIDENTS HAPPEN. I am sure Mr. Hill did not go out Sunday with the intention of having an accident but his death could have been prevented if he would have just thought about what could happen. 

I have seen a few of my neighbors ride PWC's without lifejackets and every time it makes me nervous. I am glad no major accidents happened on Lake Wedowee this holiday weekend, but don't think you are bulletproof when it comes to not wearing your life jacket because you could end up like Mr. Hill. By the way, it is illegal to ride a jetski, seadoo, or other PWC without a lifejacket.

Until next time,

Kelly