Summer is right around the corner—and for many families, vacation is top of mind. Whether you’re planning beach outings, water sports or exploring lakes and rivers, these six tips will help you keep your family safe in and around the water:
1. Everybody should know how to swim, and adults should know CPR. Enroll children in swimming lessons ahead of the planned vacation period and learn CPR so you are prepared to act quickly in an emergency.
2. Review water safety with your family before and during your trip. Establish family water rules. Talk to your family about the importance of water safety ahead of your vacation. Each family member can do their part to ensure the safety of the group.
3. Ensure all pools and spas you visit have proper barriers and compliant drains. Proper fences, barriers, alarms and covers can be lifesaving devices. The Consumer Product Safety Commission offers this advice:
4. Gear up! While water toys like inflatable floats or pool noodles are fun, they are not safety equipment. Coast Guard-approved life jackets should be used to keep kids safe in or around any body of water. Hats, sunglasses, UV-protective clothing and sunscreen with a high SPF will help protect against sunburn. Don’t forget the first aid kit!
5. Stay hydrated and keep energy levels up. Pack balanced snacks, meals and plenty of water.
6. Respect the environment. Leave the area the way you found it—or better! Bring a garbage bag with you to ensure food wrappers, cans or papers don’t get left behind. If it’s safe to do so, consider disposing of existing litter as you leave.
Written by Y-USA Staff, www.ymca.org/ystories
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