As summer temperatures rise, water activities become a popular way to cool off. However, it’s crucial to keep water safety in mind to prevent accidents and injuries. Here are some important reminders:
Know the water, and avoid cold, fast-running water. Cold, fast-moving water can be extremely dangerous for you and/or first responders.
Check for hidden hazards. Many obstacles, such as submerged trees and rocks, can lurk below the water’s surface, especially after high runoff periods. Think before you leap off that rock. Jumping into cold water can cause the “gasp reflex,” leading to involuntary inhalation of water and potentially fatal consequences like cardiac arrest, hypothermia, and drowning.
Know your limits. Even strong swimmers can be overwhelmed by cold, swift water. Open-water swimming is more challenging than swimming in a pool, and it is best to swim with a friend to ensure safety.
Conditions in open water can change quickly, and even skilled swimmers can misjudge the situation. A properly fitted U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket is essential for safety.
Stay safe and enjoy your water activities responsibly this summer.
Photo by Erik Dungan on Unsplash
