As we reach the halfway mark through May, which happens to be National Water Safety Awareness Month, we want to provide some safety tips for general water safety. No matter how well you can swim, there are certain things you should consider, helping keep you and your family safe. So, before you dive into the water, be sure to keep these safety tips in mind.
Learn to swim
Children should be enrolled in swimming lessons conducted by qualified instructors. Having strong swimming skills is something that not only reduces the risk of drowning, but it also helps build confidence and knowledge in, and around, water. The younger you learn to be comfortable in the water, the less afraid, and better equipped to handle dangerous situations you will be.
Supervise
Being able to swim doesn’t completely remove the risks associated with drowning. Therefore, whether at the pool, beach, lake, or any other body of water, children should never be left alone or out of arm’s reach of an adult. Always keep children within sight near water.
The Canadian Red Cross states that “A small child can disappear in seconds and can drown in only a few centimetres of water—enough to cover the mouth and nose. Typically, these drownings occur in backyard pools, toddler pools, the bathtub, or at the beach.”
Drowning is one of the leading causes of unintentional death among children ages one to four. Keep your little ones safe by ensuring they are closely supervised by a responsible adult.
“Drowning is one of the leading causes of unintentional death for Canadian children ages one to four.” –Canadian Red Cross
Wear life jackets
Life jackets or personal floatation devices can provide extra security on the water. Anyone participating in water activities should always wear a life jacket. By law, you are required to have a life jacket on board for each person on a watercraft.
“Wearing a lifejacket or a PFD can prevent 90% of boating-related drownings.” –Canadian Red Cross
Be water aware
Be cautious in open water. Lakes and rivers can present unique challenges, so you should always be aware of your surroundings. Understand the risks associated with currents, waves, entangling underwater plants, or other hazards. Follow safety guidelines and warnings associated with where you are located.
Stay hydrated
During the summer, it is easy to become dehydrated. Drink plenty of water and be sure to protect yourself from UV rays by regularly applying sunscreen, wearing a hat, and UV-protective clothing.
Always reapply sunscreen after getting out of the water and at least every two hours regardless of water activities.
When spending time in the heat, drinking water is essential to prevent dehydration. Drink one cup (8 ounces) of water every 15–20 minutes, and remember that drinking water at shorter intervals is more effective than drinking large amounts infrequently.
We want you to enjoy the outdoors and water activities as the weather heats up. By prioritizing safety and staying vigilant on and in the water, you will help keep everyone safe this season. Remember to wear your life jackets, supervise children closely, be aware of your surroundings, and stay hydrated and take breaks to avoid exhaustion.