To flee from the burning hot weather, everybody swims at summer. Swimming is not only a cool relief, but also a desirable exercise method and pure fun. However water also can be dangerous for kids without proper precautions. According to statistics, drowning is the second leading cause of accidental death for people between the ages of 5 and 24. In fact, taking simple precautions could lower the risk of drowning effectively and significantly.
■ Precaution to Prevent Drowning ■
The very first step of keep your kids from drowning is to never let them swim alone. Here are some tips.
Equipment: Get a life vest for your child. Check the weight and size recommendations on the label, then have your child try it on to make sure it fits snugly. Don't forget the sunscreen before getting into the water and reapply it frequently. UV sunglasses, hats, and protective clothing can also help provide sun protection.
Keep hydrated: It's more likely to get dehydrated in the sun, especially when kids are sweating, dizziness, feeling lightheaded, and nausea are signs of dehydration and overheating. Therefore, please remind kids should drink plenty of water to keep hydrated.
Water temperature: Enter the water slowly and make sure it feels comfortable for you and your child. Most swimmers feel cold when the water temperature is under 20°C. In general, 28°C ~ 30°C is the most comfortable temperature for kids to swim in. Body temperature drops more quickly in water than on land, and it does not take long for hypothermia to set in. If a child is shivering or having cramps, get him or her out of the water immediately and keep him or her warm.
■ Safety Advice at Different Swimming Environment ■
Swimmingin pool, lake or seaside are completely different. We have to deal with different hazard respectively.
- Seaside -
★ Kids should always swim when and where a lifeguard is on duty.
★ Don’t get anywhere close to piers or pilings, because water may pushes swimmers and hit on them.
★ Unlike the calm waters of a swimming pool, in sea, there are special dangers like currents and tides. Check with the lifeguard when you arrive to find out about the water conditions.
★ Don't swim in large waves or undertows, and tell your kids never stand in the water facing the shore because wave can easily knock them over.
★ The stings of jellyfish can be very painful, so tell kids do not touch them and turn to an adult right after if they got stung.
★ Whether at the lake or at the beach, teach your child to get out of the water during bad weather, especially lightning.
- Water World -
★ Before you go, make sure the park is monitored by qualified lifeguards.
★ Once there, read all precaution posters before letting your child on any rides (many rides have age, height, weight, or health limitation, and the depth of water are different).
★ Parents should know which rides are appropriate for your child's age and physical conditions. For example, wave pools can quickly go from calm to rough, even over a good swimmer head. These rides are not suitable for young kids.
★ Teach your kids to follow all rules and directions, such as walking instead of running and always going down the water slide in the right position - feet first and face up. Wearing a life jacket is a good idea as well.
- Lake, Pond or Pool -
★ Don't let kids swim without adult supervision - lakes or ponds may be shallow near the bank and then increase in depth sharply further offshore.
★ Watch out for weeds and grass that could entangle a leg or arm.
★ Most boating accidents, particularly among teenagers, are related to alcohol. When you and your family are boating, assign a designated driver who won't drink. Be sure teens know about the dangers of alcohol, on and off the water.