Open Water Drowning Media Tips

11/25/2024

General Safety Tips

1. Supervision: Always have a designated water watcher who is responsible for monitoring swimmers, especially children.

2. Swim in Designated Areas: Only swim in areas that are supervised by lifeguards.

3. Learn to Swim: Enroll in swimming lessons through accredited organizations such as the American Red Cross or YMCA.

4. Use Life Jackets: Ensure everyone, especially children and non-swimmers, wear U.S. Coast Guardapproved life jackets.

5. Know the Water: Be aware of the water conditions, currents, and underwater hazards.

6. Avoid Alcohol: Do not consume alcohol before or during swimming, boating, or other water activities.

7. Learn CPR: Get certified in CPR to be prepared in case of an emergency.

8. Buddy System: Always swim with a buddy and never alone.

9. Emergency Plan: Have a plan for emergencies, including knowing where rescue equipment is located and how to use it.

Specific to Lakes and Rivers

1. Currents and Undertows: Be cautious of strong currents and undertows. Avoid swimming in fastmoving water.

2. Temperature Awareness: Open water can be much colder than expected, leading to hypothermia. Dress appropriately.

3. Water Depth: Be aware of changing water depths, which can lead to unexpected drops.

4. Avoid Diving: Never dive headfirst into unknown or shallow waters to avoid head and spinal injuries.

Specific to Oceans

1. Rip Currents: Learn how to identify and escape rip currents. Swim parallel to the shore to break free

from a rip current.

2. Marine Life: Be aware of jellyfish, sharks, and other marine life. Follow local warnings and advice.

3. Tides: Understand tidal patterns and how they affect swimming conditions.

References:

1. American Red Cross: Offers swimming lessons, lifeguard training, and CPR certification. [Red Cross Water Safety] (https://www.redcross.org/get-help/how-to-prepare-for-emergencies/types-ofemergencies/water-safety.html)

2. YMCA: Provides comprehensive swimming programs and water safety education. [YMCA Aquatics] (https://www.ymca.net/water-safety)

3. Safe Kids Worldwide: Provides resources and tips for preventing water-related injuries. [Safe Kids Water Safety] (https://www.safekids.org/watersafety)

4. U.S. Coast Guard: Offers guidelines for boating safety and life jacket use. [USCG Boating Safety] (https://www.uscgboating.org/)

5. National Drowning Prevention Alliance (NDPA): Focuses on advocacy and education to prevent drowning. [NDPA Resources] (https://ndpa.org/resources/)

6. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): Provides statistics and prevention tips for waterrelated injuries. [CDC Water Safety] (https://www.cdc.gov/homeandrecreationalsafety/watersafety/index.html)

These measures and resources are designed to educate the public and media about the importance of water safety and drowning prevention. Feel free to contact us.