In the third post for the summer safety series, we are covering water safety. Pools, rivers, lakes, streams, ponds, hot tubs, oh-my! Water surrounds us all, especially during the summer when we tend to spend more time outside. Water activities are at the heart of summer fun, so knowing how to enjoy splash time safely is key to a safe summer.
In 2022, drowning was the leading cause of death among children aged one to four years old, and 75% of all drownings in the United States happen to boys and men, according to the National Drowning Prevention Alliance (NDPA). As a community, we strive to minimize these tragedies and encourage safe water fun!
Here are a few tips from NDPA to stay safe around water this summer, if you're poolside or near hot tubs:
Never take your eyes off children in the water – not even for a minute! Parents may think they'll hear splashing and screaming when a child is in trouble, but it usually happens quickly and silently when a child drowns.
- Don't allow a young child in the pool without an adult.
- Knowing how to swim doesn't make a person drown-proof. Never use flotation devices as a substitute for supervision. (Do use floatation devices in addition to supervision if the individual is not a strong swimmer.)
- If a person is missing, check the pool first. Seconds count in preventing death or disability.
- Avoid diving into shallow water to prevent traumatic brain injury, like a concussion.
- Never go swimming alone.
- Consider more preventative measures for young ones, like alarms, fences, and covers.
- Know life-saving skills, like CPR, in case of emergencies.
If you're enjoying natural bodies of water, here are some additional safety tips from the American Red Cross:
- Be sure you are water competent for natural environments before swimming – this is not your home pool! (Water competent means having water safety awareness and basic swimming skills.)
- Always enter unknown or shallow water feet first.
- Watch out for currents, waves, and underwater obstructions – they're not just found in the ocean.
- Wear a life jacket, even for experienced swimmers.
5 Steps to Become Water Competent:
Another great resource you can view for free at home is the National Drowning Prevention Alliance's water safety pamphlet. For low-cost life jackets, check out Big 5 Sporting Goods and present this 20% off coupon, good at any Big 5 in Washington and northern Idaho.
Always remember that drowning and water injury are 100% preventable! It is possible to make a splash and stay safe.
Find a swim class near you: Find a Red Cross Swim Lesson Provider | American Red Cross
Additional Resources: