Don’t Become A Drowning Statistic

Where Drowning Can Occur

Drowning can happen literally anywhere there is water.  Most people associate drowning with being swept down a river or succumbing to the ocean, but your home and backyard can be just as dangerous as the worst riptide.  People, especially small children, can drown in a surprisingly small amount of water, even a toilet or bucket, but they are more likely to do so in a bathtub, wading pool, or swimming pool.

Although it is generally assumed that children under ten, especially toddlers, are the most likely to drown, it is actually people between the ages of eleven and twenty-five who are usually victims.  Besides home or yard, drowning occurs frequently at beaches, and is also associated with rivers, lakes, and boating.

Keep Everyone Safe At Home

If you have small children, never leave water in a bathtub or other container.  A toddler can get into trouble while the parents are distracted talking on the phone or working around the house.  The swimming pool should be fenced securely, with the gate locked when no one is using it.  A cover should also be put over the pool between uses. Child emergency kits are important to have because unfortunately, no one is guaranteed to be safe during an unexpected emergency.

Boat Safety

Despite many safety campaigns, people still insist on going boating without wearing life preservers.  If an accident happens when you are in a boat of any kind, the device will keep you afloat even if you have been knocked unconscious.  The strongest swimmer will be helpless if they are unconscious. 

Besides wearing a floatation device, you should never drink while operating a boat.  Alcohol will produce the same effects that will be experienced while you are driving, and many boating accidents are caused because the ‘captain’ is drunk.

The Guardian Fanny pack kit is great to have on a boat. It is very light weight and easy to carry while still having the first aid supplies you will need in case something unexpected happens while your far from shore.

Minimize Your Risk

Swimming, boating, and water skiing are fun, so it is not surprising that many people will be attracted to the water during the summer months especially.  Although it might seem obvious, make sure everyone who is going in the water or on a boat knows how to swim.  A number of people drown simply because they were engaging in a water activity without knowing how to swim.

You should never swim alone.  If you get a cramp or are injured, a friend can help to make sure that you will reach the shore.  And, even if swimming with a buddy, do not stretch your physical limits.  If you tire while far from shore, it can be difficult for you to get to safety again.  The farther you go from shore, too, the more likely you are to run afoul of dangerous currents that can sweep you farther out to sea.

Cold water can cause hypothermia, so make sure the water has warmed enough to make swimming safe.  Generally, a water temperature of 80 degrees F is required for comfortable and safe swimming.

If you are going boating, let others know how long you plan on being out and when and where you will return.  This will allow rescue efforts to be started right away in case of an accident or other trouble.