Water Safety Tips
While pools, lakes, ponds or beaches are ideal for summer fun, always bear in mind that water is hazardous and you need to take all necessary precautions. The first rule regarding water safety is to never automatically consider a pool as perfectly safe. Many unintentional deaths are caused by drowning, and it may come as a surprise but a majority of drownings occur in home pools. With kids around, you need to be extra alert since they need constant supervision around water. Children are the most vulnerable victims.
Drowning can occur in a split second. If you are going to the beach or plan to be by the poolside, remember these safety tips at all times:
. Take care to swim only in designated areas when you go to the beach or lakeside. Never violate this rule as lifeguards need to be able to see you at all times.
. Ensure that your children obey rules and signs put out near the water. Make sure they understand that rules are there for their own safety.
. Pay attention to the weather when you're near water. Have an ear to the ground regarding weather updates. The first sign of inclement weather like high waves or lightning are indications that you should move to safety.
. Do not consume alcohol while swimming. All alcoholic substances are capable of impairing your faculties. Besides losing your balance and coordination, they affect the senses.
. Out in the open, it makes a lot of sense to keep replenishing yourself by drinking a lot of water to hydrate. This is important for feeling absolutely fit in the water.
. If you are going to be out on the water for a while, make sure that you inform someone of your plans. Ensure that people have your whereabouts in case of an incident.
. For added safety, be sure to always wear a life jacket. This is especially important if you are aboard a boat. Also, prior to setting out, ensure that there is a jacket for everyone aboard.
. Always check for the running condition of the vessel before taking it into the water. If it's a motor boat, check to see that has oars as backup in case you run out of fuel.
. If you are going swimming make sure you have a friend along with you. It's always better to have a buddy than swimming alone. Take care that you swim while a lifeguard is on duty.
. Children should not be left unsupervised near pools or beachside. There is no substitution for adult supervision. Remember you will know of things only by watching at all times. Since drowning is a silent killer you will not hear anyone call out for help. But you can help when you see someone going under water.
. Get to know everything about the water you are entering. In swimming pools, be aware of the shallow and deep-ends. On the beach, be aware of the currents and water temperature.
. It's also quite sensible to have telephone numbers, ropes, a grappling pole and life jackets ready at hand. And it never hurts to get trained in CPR.
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