Water Safety
10 Safety Tips for Enjoying the Pool, Lake, and Beach This Summer
Cheryl J. Eddins UREC Assistant Director Aquatics and Safety
As the weather gets warmer, more people love to enjoy the coolness of the water. Unfortunately, the CDC reports that the number one cause of accidental preventable deaths for ages 1-4 is drowning.
Please take a few moments and read these important tips to keep your family and friends safe this season.
Tip # 1 Swim Lessons Save Lives
There are many fun activities available for your child. Remember, the best activity that could save their life is learning to swim. So please put this at the top of your list!Tip # 2 Adult Supervision is Required even in Lifeguarded Pools
Lifeguards are there to keep everyone safe, but your child’s safety is your responsibility. Recent studies show that the number one distraction is cell phones. It takes 20-26 seconds for a child to drown and most drownings are silent.
Tip # 3 Never Swim Alone
Always use a buddy system in open water so help or a call is available immediately.
Tip # 4 Use a Coast Guard Approved PFD in the Pool or Open Water
PFDs are useful in a pool for weak swimmers in a pool. They are necessary in case of a boating accident in a lake or ocean. A person is not likely to drown with this useful device on, so don’t forget to Wear It not just Pack It.
Tip # 5 No Breath Holding Games or Underwater Swimming
Underwater Hypoxic Breathing (UHB) occurs when you hold your breath resulting in oxygen deprivation to the brain potentially causing fainting underwater. This is preventable by simply avoiding breath holding water activities.
Tip # 6 Alcohol and Water Don’t Mix
Alcohol impairs your motor skills as well as judgement and more water accidents occur when drinking and participating in water activities.
Tip # 7 Be Aware of Dangers in Waterfalls, Lakes, Rivers, and Oceans
Dangers include rip currents, underwater fallen trees, slippery rocks, and other hidden hazards. Diving into ocean waves and unknown depths are especially dangerous.
Tip # 8 Never Swim during Thunderstorms Indoors or Outdoors
The National Safety Lightening Institute recommends no swimming during a storm when the storm is within 10 miles.
Tip # 9 Don’t Drive through Flooded Areas
During Hurricane Helene, in North Carolina, there were over 200 flood water rescues by the National Guard and local teams. Turn around and don’t drive through flooded waters.
Tip # 10 Learn CPR
If a near drowning occurs, knowing CPR and being that first responder gives that individual a higher chance of survival. Remember to start rescue breaths first in drowning cases.