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BetterLife Magazine - May 2022
Water Safety Tips For Staying Safe This Summer by Jade Morschauser
Summer is almost here, and with summer comes sunny, warm days spent by the pool or at the beach. But, do you know how to keep you and your family safe in and around the water? According to the Red Cross, before you jump in this summer, it’s important to first become water competent. This involves water smarts, swimming skills, and helping others. Be Water Smart The Red Cross defines “water smart” as being aware of your surroundings whether you’re swimming in a pool or the ocean. Before jumping in, it’s important to know your physical limitations, especially when swimming in open water. While you may be able to swim well in a heated pool, that doesn’t mean you’ll swim well in cold water. Additionally, you should never swim alone. Always swim with a lifeguard or other water watcher (such as a friend or family member) present. And while everyone loves a pool party, it’s important to swim sober in order to stay safe. You should also know how to call for help in your area, whether that means contacting the beach lifeguard or local emergency services. 911 is the emergency dispatch hotline for the United States, but if you’re traveling out of the country for a summer trip, the number will be different.
