MSHA promoting summer water safety through program

MSHA, the Ohio Department of Natural Resources and the Ohio Aggregates and Industrial Minerals Association (OAIMA) are collaborating to promote summer water safety through the Stay-Out and Stay-Alive program.

Now in its 14th year, the program warns outdoor enthusiasts, ATV participants and young people about the dangers of playing and swimming on mine property. Since 1999, nearly 300 people have lost their lives in recreational accidents at mine properties. Nearly half the victims were between 15 and 25 years old.

“With kids across the country on summer break, the temptation to swim in an abandoned quarry can be hard to overcome,” says Joseph Main, assistant secretary of labor for mine safety and health. “Together we can more effectively spread the word about the potential dangers of playing on mine property.”

OAIMA is urging all Ohioans to observe and comply with “No Trespassing” signs and other warnings. The association is also advising parents to warn young people about the dangers of swimming in any unguarded body of water.