Water Safety tips for Summer !
There are a number of reasons why water safety is important for both parents and children to learn. The biggest perhaps is that drowning is the second leading cause of accidental death between the ages of 5 and 24. Accidental drownings are completely preventable. By understanding that water can be dangerous and remembering a few safety tips, summer can be more fun and less stressful.
1) Be Prepared
The first way to avoid any accidents in the water is to make sure you and your kids are both comfortable around water. The best way to insure this is to get involved in a swimming program and sticking with it. The younger you start the better, but starting at any age is better than never starting at all! Learning to swim can be rewarding in many ways. A lifetime of fun and safety around water is priceless.
2) Never swim alone
Whether at the beach, in a lake, or in your own pool; swimming alone is never a good idea. Even strong swimmers can get tired or caught on something under the water. When swimming with children make sure to never leave them unattended. Babies can drown in as little as 1- inch of water.
3) Know your surroundings
Before entering the water check out your surroundings. Notice if there are any dangerous areas or if there are any warning signs about swimming. Look for entrance and exit points as well as where the water is deep and shallow. Make sure to inform kids of these discoveries and to explain why it is important to notice these things before jumping into the water.
4) Be aware of dry drowning
What is dry drowning? It is defined as " Drowning from fluid in the lungs that occurs not during submersion in water, but up to 24 hours after swimming or bathing." There are times where you may not see you child swallow or inhale water, because of this it is good to know the warning signs of dry drowning. Trouble breathing, coughing, vomiting, and extreme fatigue are all signs to watch for. Dry drowning can be sneaky. The best precaution is to keep a close eye on your child while swimming as well as after.
5) Know rescue techniques
There are numerous organizations that offer classes to learn CPR and first aid. These skills can help keep you and your family safe in emergency circumstances. Check with the YMCA, a local hospital, or the Red Cross for classes.
6) Prevent accidents
Install gates and use barriers around home pools and spas as precautions for children. Make sure that the gates are at least 4 feet high, self closing, and open away from pool. Keep toys out of the pool when not swimming to help not attract kids toward the pool.
7) Wear a life jacket
Always have young children and inexperienced swimmers wear U.S. Coast Guard approved life jackets while swimming, but do not rely on them alone. Also be sure the life jacket fits properly and is not too big or too small.
8) Set rules
Give your kids a set of rules to remember before letting them swim. Running around the pool and horse play should be strictly prohibited around water because of the possibility of slipping and falling. If there are lifeguards on duty let your kids know they have to follow their rules as well.
By remembering these tips you can have fun swimming with your family and feel safe! Being prepared can save lives and make your time around water more enjoyable.
