Did you know that 43% of drownings happen in open water?
Tips:
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Always enter shallow or unknown water feet first.
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Look for currents and riptides.
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Don't swim alone.
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Look for signs and safety information posted around the area.
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Watch for boats if swimming in an area that is used frequently for boating.
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Keep an eye on the weather when swimming outside.
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Know your swimming abilities.
Remember to keep your phone away when supervising children swimming in open water
Supervising:
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Use floatation devices like, PFDs or life jackets for younger children that are not able to swim well.​
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Know how many children get into to the water and keep a count of the children, as well as the children getting out of the water. This will help you know if someone is missing.
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Even when children are just playing around the water, make sure to supervise them -- you never know when they will start to venture farther into the water.
Supervising:
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Use floatation devices like, PFDs or life jackets for younger children that are not able to swim well.​
-
Know how many children get into to the water and keep a count of the children, as well as the children getting out of the water. This will help you know if someone is missing.
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Did you know...
As children get older, the risk of open water drowning becomes greater.
Older children tend to push their swimming abilities farther than younger ones do. They want to keep swimming even though they are tired. Supervise all children whether they are teenagers or young children.