A day spent having fun outdoors can easily turn to disaster when simple rules of safety aren't followed. Here are some tips on staying safe...
Drowning is one of the leading causes of death among Canadian children of 14 years and under. Children can drown in home and community pools, in oceans, lakes and water parks, in the bath and even in buckets of water left about the yard.
The typical situation leading to drowning differs among age groups. Younger children, for example, often drown while trying to reach a toy that has floated out of their reach. An older child or teen is more likely to drown while on a dare, or when gang bravado takes over. Here are some pointers on protecting your child around water:
Protecting Younger Children
Never leave toys in the water. Young children are often lured into the water by a brightly coloured or favourite toy.
Always use life jackets. Little ones who are boating or fishing should always wear proper-fitting life jackets.
Don’t rely on flotation devices. Water wings, inflatable toys and other flotation devices do not replace proper adult supervision. These devices can suddenly shift position or lose air, putting a child’s life at risk.
Talk to your child about safety. Young children cannot be expected to use sound judgement around water. They should be constantly reminded to walk slowly around the pool area and to enter only when you or another trusted adult are present.
Protecting older children
Always swim with a buddy. Children of any age should never go swimming alone.
Abide by the rules. Teach your child to swim in supervised areas only (lifeguard on duty), to obey no diving signs, and to swim parallel to the shore.
Stay within limits. Children should know their swimming limits and stay within them. Trying to keep up with stronger swimmers is an invitation to disaster. Tell your child never to compete with stronger swimmers or encourage weaker swimmers to keep up.
Remember the terrible toos. Teach your child never to enter the water if he is too tired, too cold, or too far from help if needed.
Never consume alcohol. Alcohol and swimming don’t mix - ever. Alcohol impairs balance, coordination and judgement. Reinforce this frequently as older children and teens are likely to be swayed by their drinking peers.
Watch the weather. Many a child has been struck by lightning while swimming. Children should be taught never to enter the water during a thunder storm, and to exit the water immediately on hearing thunder or seeing a lightning flash.
Always face the water. Teach your child never to sit or stand with her back turned to the water. A sudden or large wave can knock her off balance - particularly dangerous if she is standing or sitting on a rock.