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Safety Precautions for Swimming

Swimming accidents cause many deaths every year, many of those being children. It is critical that precautions are taken no matter who the swimmer is or where the swim takes place. Swim in a safe and secure area, have someone around that is experienced in CPR and First Aid, and always have life saving equipment available.

  1. Safe Swimming Area

    • Be cautious swimming near large rocks and strong waves.

      One of the most important precautions regarding swimming is to know your surroundings and make sure the swimming environment is safe. Unless you are an advanced swimmer with much experience, where you swim should be in a controlled environment, such as a swimming pool with lifeguards. If swimming in lakes, ponds, oceans, etc., you should be very knowledgeable about the area and the area's danger points, such as tidal waves and boat crossings.

    CPR and First Aid

    • Always have someone around that knows CPR.

      If you are swimming with a group of two or more people, there should be at least one person who is certified in or experienced in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and First Aid. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, fatal drowning remains the second-leading cause of unintentional injury-related death for children ages 1 to 14 years (CDC 2005). Knowing how to revive and resuscitate a person who's been involved in a swimming accident can prevent permanent brain damage and death.

    Life Saving Equipment and Procedures

    • Lifeguards should have all equipment necessary to save lives.

      When people are swimming there should always be swimming life vests and flotation devices, regardless of the experience levels of the swimmers. Life vests are available for every size from child to a adult. Life buoys, life saving hooks and rescue tubes are tools used in public swimming pools that can save lives and ensure safety. If you are at a public pool, make sure there are certified lifeguards, that the pool is clear enough to see the bottom and that the water has been cleaned and disinfected regularly.

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