Water Safety
It Can Happen in an Instant…
With the return of warmer weather and longer days, brings the endless possibilities of new experiences whether on land or by sea. Swimming and other water-related activities are great ways to get active and live a healthier life both physically and mentally. But with fun, comes risk…
It is never too early to teach your children and loved ones the importance of water safety. Drownings remain the second leading cause of preventable death in the U.S. through age 5. Tragically, an average of ten lives are lost each day in the U.S in water-related incidents. Our loved ones with a developmental disability are at an even greater risk of accidental injury and death, if unattended near even the shallowest of water sources. Teens and young adults often take risks and underestimate the power of currents and undertows. Staying safe around water goes beyond one’s ability to swim and must factor in ever-changing conditions and environmental factors. Competent supervision and ongoing reinforcement of safety and rules are critical to keep our friends, families, and neighbors safe!
Some Water Safety Tips:
- Learn to Swim! Age-appropriate swim lessons are an investment in the wellbeing of the entire family!
- Life jackets reduce risk! Half of all boating deaths could be prevented with the use of life jackets.
- Remove distractions. Be aware and present when monitoring those around water.
- Never Swim Alone. Use the buddy system and make sure a trusted adult is supervising when in and around water.
- Do not let children or the medically fragile play near drains, filters, and suction fittings.
- Make sure the body of water matches your skill and ability level.
- Do not drink alcohol or take mind-altering substances when swimming.
- Learn CPR and First Aid! The entire family can take a class together!
For access to resources please visit:
Swimming Safety Tips | Swim Safe | American Red Cross
the Y : Safety Around Water (ymca.net)
The ZAC Foundation
As Eric repositions BlueBack Health for this new future, he is building a glistening team of dynamic thinkers, innovators, and influencers–each of whom are productively devoting their lives to make life better for all of us. Eric and his team are all in, and he invites you to join them.