Summer is just around the corner, and the West Central Florida county health departments are encouraging communities to participate in water safety, and to take preventive measures to avert drownings.
With myriad pools, lakes and other surrounding bodies of water in Florida, water safety is key to prevent drownings.
Children ages 1 to 4 are more likely to drown in a home swimming pool, compared to children ages 5 to 19, who are more likely to drown in natural bodies of water, according to a news release from the Florida Department of Health-Pasco County.
As a parent or a community group member, the goal is to keep water activities fun and safe as the summer months approach, the release said.
In recognition of National Water Safety Month, the following safety tips are provided by WaterSmartFL.com.
- Supervision: Ensure that your family is knowledgeable around the water, and assign a “water watcher” by having an adult actively watch a child or adult that is in or around the water.
- Barriers: A child should never enter a pool area unaccompanied. Barriers include gates, fences, walls, doors and windows, recommended to aid in the assistance and protection of those at risk.
- Emergency Preparedness: Have a phone nearby to call 911, if needed. Know your location and the type of emergency the call is about. CPR and first aid also are important to know.
Beach and lake swimming
- Swim It: Always swim with a buddy, and when safety flags and signs give the all-clear in open water (at the beach or a lake).
- Shore It: Stay on dry land if you have a cut on your skin or if your immune system is weakened, or you don’t have a buddy to swim with.
- Dodge It: If you encounter animals that live near or in the water, stay away. Also stay clear from red tides and algal blooms that can cause skin irritation, burning eyes, and throat and breathing irritations.
For information, visit NWSM.phta.org.
For questions, call your local county health department.
Published May 04, 2022
