When warm weather arrives, it’s natural to want to make a splash in the pool, take a boat ride, or enjoy other water activities. But safety is key for a safe and enjoyable time in and near the water. Keep reading to learn more about essential water safety tips for swimming, boating, or any water-related activity.
1. Teach Your Kids the Dangers of Drowning
Drowning is a frighteningly real danger to the lives of our children, and it starts as soon as they’re old enough to engage in water activities. As parents, it is our responsibility to educate our children on the steps they need to take to reduce their risk of drowning.
Start in the Bathtub Drowning doesn’t just occur in large bodies of water. It can also occur in the bathtub, and is far more common than what people may assume. To make bathtime safer, never leave children in the tub unattended, even for a few seconds, and keep buckets and other containers emptied of all standing water when not in use.
Pool Safety If you have a swimming pool, there are several steps that can be taken to reduce the chances of drowning. Make sure it’s fenced in to keep your children from accessing it without your supervision. Have life jackets, floaties, and other flotation devices on hand for children when swimming. Avoid deep water and set ground rules for everyone who uses the pool.
Cover Open Bodies of Water Lakes, rivers, and oceans all pose a risk of drowning. If your children insist on going into open bodies of water, make sure you have the right safety gear, and establish rules and guidelines for their behavior before they set out. Once they’redone playing, make sure they’re wearing life jackets and have been taught how to swim.
Teach Respect Respect for the water is essential in avoiding unintentional drowning. Make sure your children know to respect the waves and the currents and that they don’t overestimate their swimming skills. Even strong swimmers can be caught off guard by a strong current.
Emphasize Education Teaching your children about water safety is a lifelong commitment, so it’s important to reinforce the message every summer. Make sure you equip them with the skills and knowledge they need to be safe when in and around water.
2. Be Mindful of Weather Conditions and Water Levels
Ensure the conditions for your kayaking trip are ideal by being mindful of both the weather and the water levels. Taking these factors into consideration will make the journeymore comfortable and safe.
Weather Forecast Before you set off, make sure to thoroughly check the forecast for the day. Look out for potential rain and wind that may disrupt your kayaking plans. If the weather is looking unpredictable or extreme, even if you are an experienced kayak enthusiast, it may be best to postpone your excursion.
Go With the Flow Don’t forget to also pay attention to the water level! Too much or too little of it can change the difficulty of the kayaking experience. Before you head out, make sure to check the hydrological levels; this can prevent big surprises later down the line. If you are still unsure if the water level is appropriate, speak to a local or guide for advice.
Be Prepared It is always best to come prepared for any unexpected changes in the weather. Bring along sun block, a hat, raincoat, and extra layers; this will protect you from extreme temperatures.
Whether you are alone or with company on your kayaking journey, being mindful of the weather and water level can make the experience far more enjoyable for everyone. Enjoy sightseeing without the extra stress of worrying about potential emergencies on the water.
3. Equip Your Boats with Safety Gear
Whether you’re a seasoned mariner or a first-time boat captain, staying safe out in the open water is a must. Before you disembark, make sure you and your vessel are properly equipped for smooth seas and turbulent waters alike.
- Life Jackets: No matter your age or swimming prowess, wearing a life jacket when you’re out on the water is a non-negotiable. Ensure that you have enough life jackets for everyone on board, and make sure to check the jackets for wear.
- Emergency Supplies: Knowing what to do in an emergency situation is only half the battle. Be sure to bring along oars, flares, a radio, flashlights or headlamps, a map and a compass, and extra clothes — just in case.
Anchors: In many cases, your boat may move around more than you’d like it to. Anchoring in appropriate and legal areas can ensure your craft stays in place until you click off the engine. Plus, anchoring can be a great way to enjoy the sights, sounds, and scents of nature.
Fire Safety: No matter the size, make sure your boat is up to code, and equipped with the necessary fire-fighting gear. This includes fire extinguishers, a first aid kit, a flashlight, and a working smoke detector. Taking these steps can help notify you of any fire risks and can help prevent a hazardous situation.
Your boat’s security should always be a top priority, and making sure your vessel has proper safety and survival equipment is the best way to keep you and your crew safe.
4. Exercise Caution with Water Sports
Participating in water sports can be an exhilarating experience, but with any activity that involves water there are certain safety precautions that should be taken. Before you take the plunge, here are some tips you should bear in mind.
Know Your Own Limits
It’s important to keep in mind that all bodies are different and as such your capacity when it comes to water sports may vary from that of your friend. Don’t push yourself too hard and pay attention to any early signs of fatigue or distress. Take regular breaks and practice caution. Swim in areas suited to your level of ability.
Consider the Weather Conditions
Even on the most beautiful sunny day, water sports can still be dangerous if the weather is unpredictable. Before heading out, check the forecast for the day and if the weather looks uncertain, wait for a better day. When out on the water, keep an eye on the skies and be wary of any sudden changes in temperature, wind or rain.
Never Go Alone
Water activities can be much more enjoyable when shared with friends or family. It is also a lot safer. Set up a buddy system to keep an eye on one another and identify any areas that may need to be addressed for safety reasons. Additionally, arrange for someone to stay on the shore or nearby to help in the event of an emergency.
Don’t Take Chances With Safety Gear
A life jacket is an essential piece of safety gear for any water sports. Always make sure you check the condition and fit of your life jacket and other safety gear before you set out. Carry a spare, if you have one, and be aware of the emergency procedures and equipment. It’s always better to be safe than sorry.
Be Wary of Pollutants or Unseen Hazards
- Look out for chemical or animal waste that may have washed up.
- Be aware of any hazardous conditions in the water, like debris or dangerous underwater objects.
- Wear protective eyewear to protect your eyes from the sun or irritants.
- Use biodegradable sun screen and insect repellent.
Once you take these steps to ensure your safety, you can enjoy engaging in water sports and boating activities with peace of mind. Remember, it’s always best to exercise caution and enjoy water sports with safety first!
No matter the activity, staying safe in the water is a priority. By understanding the key principles of water safety, you’re off to a great start. Keep these tips in mind as you embark on new aquatic adventures, and have a wonderful time in the water!
