For many of us, summer fun means swimming. Perhaps you’re on a family outing with a group of children at the lake. Or, alternatively, you might be taking a much-deserved vacation at the beach!
We, at Rockwall Insurance, would like to remind you that it’s possible to have fun in the water and be responsible. Please remember that swimmers come in all ages and skillsets. While one swimmer may be quite safe in a pool… that same swimmer may be unfamiliar with powerful riptides in the ocean.
Here’s an interesting statistic from the National Drowning Prevention Alliance (NDPA):
“Drowning is the number one cause of injury-related death among children between the ages of 1 and 5 and the second leading cause of death for children ages 1-14.”
This statistic is not meant to alarm our readers. It encourages practicing safe swim practices for all. Here are 10 hot summer tips for swimming safely:
- Check the weather beforehand, and intermittently, when swimming. Lightning is extremely dangerous while you’re in the water because it’s an excellent conductor of electricity.
- Who’s swimming in your group and what is their experience level? Ocean waves are a lot different than pools!
- Children should always ask permission to swim. Make this a rule.
- Avoid alcohol or drugs while swimming, always.
- Learn CPR so you can assist someone if needed… perhaps even save a life.
- Lakes and oceans can hide dangers that lurk beneath the surface. This includes animals, sharp objects and tides so strong that even a great swimmer will get swept out. If you see someone in trouble, try to extend a stick or throw them some type of lifeline. The last thing you want is to have two people who need rescuing.
- Look before you dive! Please remember that diving into unknown waters is a very big risk as you could hit your head on something beneath the surface.
- Try to avoid swallowing water. In many situations, water contains harmful bacteria.
- Young children: Wear swim diapers or life jackets that are Coast Guard-approved.
- Obey posted signs about approved swim areas and swim where lifeguards are on duty whenever possible. Stay alert about any swimmers in your group even if a lifeguard is on duty. We must be attentive to any swimmers – especially if they’re inexperienced.
These tips will help you have a safe and enjoyable swim party wherever you might be – even your own home!
On that topic, here’s a reminder about some rules regarding your pool or spa at home for those who enjoy that special status:
- Pools must have regulation-compliant drain covers.
- Pools must be surrounded by a fence with a lock and the fence must be over four feet tall.
- Keep poles and life preservers in easy reach for safety.
- If you have a “kiddie pool” make sure it’s empty after swimming because infants can drown in extremely shallow water.
Here at Rockwall Insurance, we enjoy providing safety tips that improve the quality of people’s lives. The above precautions are an essential part of any great swimming session.
Lastly, if you have any questions about top-quality insurance, please let us know!
Contact Rockwall Insurance for great deals or call us at 972-772-0540 anytime.
