When the temperature heats up, all you can think about is cooling off at the local pool or lake. Remember: Where there’s water, there’s risk.
That doesn’t mean you shouldn’t jump in (carefully) and have some fun with family and friends. It just means you should keep these safety tips in mind any time you swim.
1. Don’t swim alone. Swim only in designated areas, with a lifeguard if possible, and use the buddy system – even adults shouldn’t swim when no one else is around. As for children, they should never be left unattended in or near the water or supervised by another child.
2. Watch the water — carefully. Give children your full attention when they are around or in water. Put away cell phones or any other distractions. Older people may also need supervision, especially if they are non-swimmers or have medical conditions. It only takes a second for someone to get into trouble in the water.
3. Mind the rules. If an area forbids diving or is closed for swimming, that means it’s unsafe to do so. Follow all posted rules and warnings.
4. Keep away from drains. In a pool or spa, a drain’s powerful suction can trap children and adults. Be sure everyone knows how to keep their distance. The same goes for riptides and currents if you’re in an open body of water. The ocean along our coastline has dangerous rip currents that can easily pull unsuspecting swimmers away from shore.
5. Know how to respond. When someone is missing, especially a child, always check the water first. Alert a lifeguard and others to help look for the missing swimmer. Call 9-1-1. Learn CPR and other skills that can save lives.
6. Use common sense. Don’t use drugs or alcohol during water activities. Do have life jackets for inexperienced swimmers. Use sunscreen frequently and keep water on hand to help everyone beat the heat.
7. Alert a lifeguard if you see someone struggling. Alternately, you could throw the person a floating object or reach out with a long object.
8. Check the safety of your home pool or hot tub. Ensure the pool or hot tub is enclosed by a secure fence and includes a self-closing, self-latching gate to prevent anyone from entering unsupervised. Consider installing alarms or additional locks for extra security. According to the American Red Cross, “69% of young children who drown were not expected to be in or near the water.”
9. Learn to swim. Make sure you and all your family members know how to swim.
With a little caution, and a whole lot of supervision, you can help ensure your day at the pool or lake goes swimmingly. Have fun getting wet and enjoy your summer!
Beat the Heat — and Your Air Conditioning Bill — This Summer
