WATER SAFETY

Swimming is a fun way to spend the afternoon with family and friends. However, drowning is the single leading cause of death for children ages 1-4 and the second leading cause of unintentional injury death for children up to age 14. It is critical to exercise extreme caution around a pool, lake, river or ocean.

POOL SAFETY

• Always supervise children while they are swimming. Never leave them alone near or in water.
• Swim with a buddy at all times.
• Never swim during a storm where there is the potential for lightning.
• Always wear a life jacket.
• Make sure children know the depth of water.
• Keep a first aid kit and a phone near the water.
• Know CPR.
• Have children aged 4 years old and older complete a swimming program.
• Enforce pool rules. No running, pushing or dunking other swimmers.
• Clear the water of toys when the pool is not in use so there is no enticement for smaller children to get in the water.
• If you have a pool, be sure there is a clear view of it from the house.
• Install a 5 foot fence around pool.
• Make sure gate handles are not accessible for children.
• Keep electrical appliances away from the water.
• Store all chemicals for pool safely.

RIVER & LAKE SAFETY

• Rivers may look calm, be careful of underwater currents and underwater hazards that can pull you in and keep you under.
• Do not overestimate your swimming ability. 
• Know CPR
• Always wear a life jacket.
• Always swim with a companion - never swim alone.
• Enter unknown water feet first to avoid potential hazards.
• Watch for sudden drop-offs that can change water depth unexpectedly.
• Avoid using alcohol and drugs.
• Cell service may be non-existent. Know the location of call-boxes.