Swimming and Lifeguarding

Why is it important to be safe in the water?

Fish are able to live and breathe under water, but people need air to breathe. People drown when too much water gets into their lungs. When that happens, the lungs can't carry enough oxygen to the brain and the rest of the body. Drowning is the second most common cause of death from injuries among kids under the age of 14. Drowning can happen so fast sometimes in less than 2 minutes after a person's head goes under the water. That leaves very little time for someone to help.

Always practice constant, adult supervision around any body of water, including pools and spas. Never leave your child alone or in the care of another child. When hosting a pool party, assign specific adults to keep an eye on the pool at all times. Enroll non-swimmers in swimming lessons taught by a qualified instructor.

Do not allow children with no knowledge of swimming in or around the pool. For good pool safety make sure that all kids above the age of 4 attend a certified swimming class, or atleast learn basic flotation techniques and life saving techniques in case of accidents. Children younger than 4 should always be accompanied by their parents in the pool.

Check with the lifeguard on surf conditions before swimming. If lifeguards give you directions or instructions from the stand, obey them. Never swim alone - use the buddy system. Don't overestimate your swimming ability, especially early in the summer when the water is cold. Swimming ability is severely decreased in cold water. Judge your ability to participate in beach activities based on your swimming skills without the assistance of rafts and other flotation devices. Never dive into shallow water, or water of unknown depth.

Tips to Swimming Pool Safety: If your child is missing, check the pool first. If the unthinkable has happened every second counts. If you're little one already knows how to swim they should still always be supervised. Knowing how to swim doesn't prevent accidents from happening. PoolAlarms. These can be used as an added safety feature and they are made for doors and for underwater.

Ensure your kids are constantly supervised when in the water, even if they can swim like fish! Discourage children from jumping in to help other. This often results in a double tragedy. Teach them to throw the victim something that floats or a long object to hold on to. Get them to call an adult for help. Teach simple rescue methods and first aid. Be aware of the dangers around your home and the suburb where you live. Open masses of water, rivers, canals attract children to play and are extremely dangerous. Teach your kids to avoid playing in these areas.

Boating Safety
Whether you're the captain of a schooner or a passenger on a skiboat, following safety guidelines ensures your safety and that of other seafarers. Be weather wise: Sudden wind shifts, lightning flashes and choppy water all can mean a storm is brewing. Bring a portable radio to check weather reports. Bring extra gear you may need: A flashlight, extra batteries, matches, a map of where you are, flares, sun tan lotion, first aid kit, extra sunglasses. Put those that need to be protected in a watertight pouch or a container that floats.