Wednesday, June 10, 2009

Safe Summer Water Fun

A new survey conducted by the American Red Cross shows the importance of water safety skills, with half of those surveyed saying they have had an experience where they nearly drowned in their lifetime.
Nearly 1 in 3 said they had nearly drowned when they were between 5 and 15 years old.

§ This summer, many families are planning water activities at places without a lifeguard, making water safety training more important than ever.
More than 90% (93%) of those parents with children between the ages of 3 and 17 have plans to participate in water-related activities this summer.
48% plan to engage in water-related activities where no lifeguards would be on duty. Red Cross recommends swimming in areas supervised by a lifeguard. If no lifeguard is on duty, designate an adult as a “water watcher,” someone who maintains constant supervision of children around any water, no matter how well they can swim or how shallow the water.

§ The Red Cross survey found that nearly one in three parents (30 percent) believe that "floaties" are better than supervision.
Don't substitute “active” or constant supervision and the use of flotation devices such as arm floaties. Children–even adults–who are not strong swimmers should use U.S. Coast Guard approved personal flotation devices whenever they are in or around the water.

§ Now more than ever, with so many families making plans to be in or around water this summer, the Red Cross is urging families to learn to swim and learn water safety and lifesaving skills that can help save a life.
Most water-related accidents can be avoided by knowing how to stay safe and following a few simple guidelines.
Everyone should know how to swim well.
The Red Cross offers a comprehensive swimming and water safety program that teaches children and adults to learn how to swim skillfully and safely.

§ Water safety is particularly important for pool owners as almost 10% had experiences where they nearly drowned in a private pool.
It is important that pool owners know what to do and what equipment to have on hand to make the home pool or hot tub environment as safe as possible.
Enroll in water safety and learn-to-swim courses or CPR and First Aid courses offered by the Red Cross.

§ Contact us here at the Chapter House to learn more about Learn to Swim, CPR and First Aid classes.

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