SAHBA Home Hints
May 13, 2007
Water Safety Tips for Summer Swimming
Summer is fast approaching and in Tucson, that means hot weather. For most of us, especially children, it means breaking out the bathing suits and hitting the pools or lakes. To protect our children when around water, SAHBA talked to water safety expert Richard White, Executive Director of the American Red Cross.
“The best thing anyone can do to stay safe in and around water is to learn to swim,” said White. “Always swim with a buddy; never swim alone.”
White recommends that swimmers: swim in areas supervised by a lifeguard; read and obey all rules and posted signs; use a feet-first entry when entering the water; enter headfirst only when the area is marked for diving; and watch out for the dangerous “toos” – too tired, too cold, too far from safety, too much sun, too much strenuous activity.
“Also, children or inexperienced swimmers should take precautions, such as wearing a U.S. Coast Guard-approved personal floatation device when around water,” said White, a SAHBA member. “However, don't rely on substitutes. Flotation devices and inflatable toys cannot replace parental supervision. These devices could suddenly shift position, lose air, or slip out from underneath, leaving the child in a dangerous situation.”
Swimmers should be knowledgeable of the water environment they are in and its potential hazards, such as deep and shallow areas; currents; obstructions; and where entry and exit points are located. The more informed the swimmer is, the more they are aware of hazards and safe practices.
“Pay attention to local weather conditions and forecasts. Stop swimming at the first indication of bad weather,” said White. “Also, it's very important to not mix alcohol with swimming, diving or boating. Alcohol impairs judgment, balance, and coordination. It affects swimming and diving skills, and reduces the body's ability to stay warm.”
The American Red Cross has swimming courses for people of any age and swimming ability. Parents can enroll their children in a water safety course or Learn-to-Swim classes. Parents also can purchase a Water Safety Handbook. White recommends parents take a CPR course.
“Around the water, knowing these skills can be important and will expand parents' capabilities in providing care for their child,” he said. “Lastly, maintain constant supervision. Watch children around any water environment.”
Details: www.redcrossarizona.org.
SAHBA represents about 750 member businesses and 40,000 jobs serving the residential construction industry in Pima and Cochise counties.
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