Stay safe in the water this summer

(ARA) - Summertime brings trips to the beach, splashing in lakes and rivers and parties by the pool. But that fun can quickly turn to tragedy if someone drowns. While it's unpleasant to think about the worst case scenario, it turns out approximately one in four U.S. adults knew someone who drowned and nearly half of adults say they've had a near-drowning experience, according to a recent American Red Cross survey.

The survey also shows that while more than 90 percent of families with young children will be in the water at some point this summer, 66 percent plan to swim in a place with no lifeguard.

"It only takes a moment for someone to drown. With so many families planning to visit unsupervised beaches and pools, it's important for parents to make water safety a priority," says Scott Conner, senior vice president for preparedness and health and safety services at the American Red Cross. "Learn how to swim and take water safety, first aid and CPR/AED training so you'll know what to do in an emergency."

Conner recommends people swim in areas protected by lifeguards. But whether there are lifeguards or not, adults should constantly supervise children no matter how well they can swim or how shallow the water.

The risk of drowning highlights the need for both swimming lessons and water safety training, so adults and children know what to do in a water emergency, and CPR/AED training to assist those who might need help because of a water emergency.

In addition to swimming with a buddy in a supervised area, keep the following simple safety tips in mind:

* If someone is missing, check the water first.
* If someone is in the water and needs help, reach or throw something out to them - don't go in unless you are trained.
* Know how and when to call 9-1-1 or the local emergency number.
* Teach children to always ask permission to go near water.
* Have young children or inexperienced swimmers wear a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket around water.
* Have appropriate equipment near your pool, such as reaching or throwing equipment, a cell phone, life jackets and a first aid kit.
* Enroll in Red Cross water safety, first aid and CPR/AED courses to learn life-saving skills.

The American Red Cross offers swimming lessons for kids of all ages. For more details, visit RedCross.org and contact your local Red Cross chapter to find out which aquatic facilities in your area offer Red Cross Water Safety programs.

Courtesy of ARAcontent

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