Practicing water safety can prevent serious injury or even death.
Spring and Summer can be fun. From jet skiing to boating, the rivers and oceans leave us with wide open spaces. With crystal blue waters and the blazing sun, it becomes the perfect day and atmosphere to relax and allow nature to take you on a journey.
Anything you do that consists of water fun can have it’s dangers. Even the strongest swimmer can can sometimes get caught up in the current. Being alert and aware can save you from a serious injury; even a fatal one.
Most accidents are preventable. Here is some advice on the do’s and dont’s of water conduct and ways to keep you, your family and friends safe as you beat the heat on a hot summer’s day.
First and foremost :
Learn to swim. The best thing anyone can do to stay safe in and around the water is to learn to swim–this includes adults and children. Parents can check with the local Red Cross for Swimming and Water Safety programs in their area.
Make sure the water is deep enough before entering headfirst. Serious accidents have occurred because of shallow water in diving situations. Do not dive into the water for anything or any reason until you are aware of it’s depth.
Be sure rafts and docks are in good condition. Just because you are at a county and/or city maintained park or recreation facility does not mean docks are safe. Erosion, even the sun, can quickly rot/corrupt wood that could have even passed an inspection earlier in the day.
Be aware. Make sure all of your water toys, tubes, floats and other gear are checked for leaks and holes; even the smallest pin hole can turn fatal if your raft is not properly inspected.
Avoid drainage ditches and arroyos. Drainage ditches and arroyos allow for water run-off and are not good places for swimming and/or playing in the water no matter how attractive they look. After heavy rain, they can quickly change into a raging river that can easily take or seriously injure a person or child. Even the strongest swimmers are no match for the power of the water. Because of its raging personality, it will not be easy to detect any foreign objects that could be lurking beneath the surface.
Read and obey all rules and posted signs. No matter how silly a rule may sound or seem, they are implemented for a reason. Rules are made to protect and are expected to be followed.
Children or inexperienced swimmers should take precautions, such as wearing a U.S. Coast Guard-approved personal flotation device. Because our oceans, rivers and even swimming pools can easily change depth, everyone should remain cautious and practice preventing injuries before they occur. It is always better to be safe then sorry.
Watch out for the hidden dangers within yourself. Being too tired, too cold, too far from a boat, dock, or land, too much sun exposure (always wear sun screen), and too much strenuous activity can cause serious harm or even be fatal. Know your limits and do not push them.
Set water safety rules for the whole family based on swimming abilities. Create these rules with friends and family in advance and stick to them. A good example, if your child is not a good swimmer he should never enter water deeper than chest high. Having a plan in advance can save you, a friend or loved one a serious injury.
Be knowledgeable of the environment you are in and any potential hazards. Water, no matter how beautiful, can change depth as do the currents. Check for obstructions, foreign objects and always remain alert.
Pay attention to local weather conditions and forecasts. A battery operated weather radio is a must have when outdoors. Weather conditions can quickly change and you need to be informed. You should always stop swimming and bring your boat or other water sports crafts to land at the indication of bad weather. Do not ever think the storm will blow over. Storms are unpredictable.
Do not mix alcohol with swimming, diving or boating. Alcohol impairs judgment, balance and coordination. You may feel you are still in control but you are not. Alcohol affects your swimming skills, diving skills and reduces your body’s ability to stay warm.
Know how to prevent, recognize, and respond to emergencies. Parents and anyone who spends a lot of time on water should take a CPR course.Knowing these skills can be important around the water and you will expand your capabilities in providing care for a/your child or a swimmer in trouble.
Always practice good water safety. It truly can become a matter of life or death.
About the author:
Jane Warren enjoys swimming, scuba diving, boating, and just about anything else related to outdoor water sports. After an injury, aquatic therapy was recommended, and she has continued swimming ever since, even competing in several swim races.
Because of her love of water sports, Jane manages a website that provides information and reviews on quality water sport items, including the best towable boating tubes, and other water sports items. The site also provides reviews of popular boating items, including Garmin GPS and Humminbird fishfinders.
Jane has also experienced the tragedy of a family death due to drowning. She knows how important it is to follow basic water safety guidelines so that all who participate are safe.
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