The weather is warming up and the pools are filling up. Mentor Fire Rescue wants everyone to have fun this summer but also to keep these important water safety tips in mind.
Teach children that swimming in open water is different from swimming in a pool. Know the hidden hazards of open water such as limited visibility, sudden drop-offs, uneven surfaces, currents and undertow.
Watch kids when they are in or around water. Watch kids carefully, without being distracted. Choose a Water Watcher if you’re in a larger group to make sure you’re clear on who is responsible for the kids.
Swim with a partner. Make sure older children swim with a partner every time. Young children and weak swimmers should always remain within arm’s reach of an adult.
Teach children how to swim. Every child is different, so enroll children in swim lessons when they are ready. Consider their age, development and how often they are around water.
Learn CPR and basic water rescue skills. It is important for teens and adults to know how to respond in an emergency.
Make sure kids learn water survival skills. Children should be able to do these five things:
- Step or jump into water over their head and return to the surface.
- Turn around in the water and orient to safety.
- Float or tread water.
- Combine breathing with forward movement in the water.
- Exit the water.
Visit www.redcross.org for more water safety tips!