By Travis England
WHITE OAK, Ga. – U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Park Ranger Stephen Cahn, a seasoned expert in water safety, recently visited White Oak Elementary School. His purpose was to read the new Bobber Water Safety book to kindergarten students, a timely reminder of the importance of water safety as summer approaches.
Kindergarten teacher Jennifer Wolf described the presentation as “age-appropriate, engaging, and informative.” It also featured a surprise appearance by the Lake Sidney Lanier project’s mascot, Buddy the Beaver, which delighted the young audience.
“I feel like it was extremely important for a subject matter expert the children viewed as an authority figure to clearly explain basic water safety and rules for children to know and follow regarding life jackets when enjoying the lake,” said Wolf.
The lesson was particularly relevant given that many of the students reside near Lake Lanier and frequently play in neighborhood pools or go boating with their families.
“I sincerely appreciate this visit and the information shared with our kindergarten students,” said Wolf. “I hope we can do this annually before the children go home for the summer.”
Ranger Cahn believes his efforts make a significant impact on the young audience.
“I believe I make a positive impact on the young children. They are open to new ideas and are eager to learn,” said Cahn. “Children want to do the right thing. These children pass the information on to siblings and parents by repeating what they learned in the lesson. They haven’t developed bad habits, like not wearing a seatbelt. Wearing a lifejacket should be like putting on a seatbelt.”
Teaching water safety to children at an early age is crucial, according to Ranger Cahn.
“Teaching children early gets them into the habit of wearing a lifejacket and could save their life,” he said. “It becomes second nature and makes them feel confident and comfortable in or on the water.”
Cahn said one particular moment stood out to the Ranger during his presentation.
“My favorite moment is when I pick a student to demonstrate the proper wearing of a life jacket,” he said. “It was especially great to have a participant celebrating a birthday. That child will talk about ‘getting to try a lifejacket on my birthday’ for a while.”
Wolf said that her personal experience highlighted the significance of water safety education.
“From a personal perspective, I have attended a funeral for a former White Oak student of mine who lost his life at Lake Lanier,” she said. “Prevention is essential, and I thank Ranger Cahn for his time and commitment to the safety of our students.”
Ranger Cahn’s efforts are part of a comprehensive initiative by USACE to foster a culture of safety and awareness among the communities it serves, especially those near water recreational sites.