After two drowning deaths this year at Oak Mountain State Park, the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (ADCNR) and the Alabama State Parks Division said Thursday their highest priority is visitor safety.
The statement was sent to 1819 News following the drowning of a 20-year-old at the park. The body of Will Aden Chisholm, of Birmingham, was recovered from Double Oak Lake on Saturday.
Alabama State Parks initially declined to comment, but officials sent a statement Thursday.
“The Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (ADCNR) and the Alabama State Parks Division are deeply saddened by the drowning at Oak Mountain State Park this past Saturday and extend our sincere condolences to the family and friends of the park visitor who lost his life,” the statement read. “ADCNR also thanks the Pelham Fire and Police Departments for their rapid emergency response.”
Saturday’s drowning was the second this year at the park and the eighth in the past five years. Pelham Mayor Rick Wash expressed his condolences and explained that because the park is within the city limits, Pelham Fire and Police respond to incidents. However, he said the city has no control over safety measures and operations at the park. ADCNR said there are safety protocols in place.
“Visitor safety is ADCNR’s highest priority,” the statement continued. “Alabama State Parks utilizes designated swimming boundaries, safety ropes, warning signs, life vests, and buoys specifically to prevent these types of accidents. Visitors are asked to adhere to all posted regulations and utilize only designated swimming areas.”
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