A day of fun can turn tragic in a moment's notice.
"It happens consistently throughout the summer months," said Jay Greenwood, NC State parks district superintendent.
Over the weekend, a 21-year-old man from Durham never resurfaced after his canoe capsized in Jordan Lake. It was the second drowning in the Triangle in a week.
"I'm afraid that due to COVID and so many people wanting to get outdoors and spend more time outside, that this is more of a danger this year than it has been in many years," said Greenwood.
19-year-old who drowned at Falls Lake on Easter Sunday identified
He says there are dangers underneath the water.
"There's a lot of stump holes. There's drop offs, things like that so even if you're just going in for a dip, if it's ankle deep one minute, it could be 10 feet the next minute," he said.
That's why being prepared with a life jacket is a foolproof plan whether you're swimming or boating.
"Even if you get out in knee deep water and it drops off real quick, if you're wearing a life jacket it will save your life."
Greenwood says those designated swimming areas are regularly checked for drop offs or any hazards you could come across while swimming.
State Park officials urge people to be prepared before swimming, boating
