We wanted to pass along to our community members the following story from resident Colleen Lazarus regarding an event that recently occurred on South Lake:
"The Fayson community has an amazing blessing to celebrate today! Jennifer Watson was in her house listening to music when she heard her dogs barking like never before. When she went outside to see what was going on, she heard a frantic yell for help. Three generations of a family were stranded in the middle of South Lake. While on a little fishing outing, their boat took on water and sank. Fully clothed, dad was struggling to get his 4 year old son to the shore. When Jennifer saw what was happening, she did not hesitate. Jumping into the water and keeping her eye on the family, she swam out to the middle of the lake and helped the little boy get to shore, with a very grateful dad and grandpa following behind. Once on shore, Johnny Watson found clothes and blankets to give the cold and tired men, to allow them to catch their breath. Jennifer’s mom, Lynne, said, "We are so lucky to live in Fayson Lakes where our kids have the opportunity to be lifeguards who are there for our community.” Jennifer is very thankful she was able to help. When I asked her how cold the water was, she said she didn’t really feel the cold of the water until she was nearly back on shore. I feel so very lucky to know this amazing young woman. You make us all proud everyday, Jennifer!"
We are incredibly grateful for these acts of courage and quick response from several of our former and "off-duty" Fayson Lakes lifeguards. It is very fortunate that the Watsons were in the right place at the right time, and we commend them for helping to prevent a bad situation from potentially becoming much worse. Many of us who know Jennifer can attest that her selfless act of jumping into freezing cold water to make a rescue is exemplary of her time spent working at Fayson Lakes, keeping our children safe. Not all superheroines and superheroes wear capes, but at least a few of them have worn a Fayson Lakes lifeguard uniform. Please be sure to extend your appreciation to the Watsons, and to our entire FLA lifeguard staff, when you see them around this summer, for continuing to make water safety in Fayson Lakes a top priority. On a final note, with the weather warming up and more people heading out on the lakes, we would like to remind all residents, regardless of swimming ability, to comply with Federal and New Jersey State boating safety laws:
Each boater under 13 years of age must wear a life jacket (Type I, II, III, or V) while on a boat at all times.
For each boater 13 years of age and older, there must be one life jacket (Type I, II, III, or V) onboard a boat at all times. For a Type V jacket to meet requirements, it must be worn while the vessel is underway.
Thank you very much, and stay safe, everyone!
The Board of Trustees, Fayson Lakes Association