Greater Sacramento Area
(916) 652 - 7709
Swimming in open water
Lakes, Rivers and Ponds
Diving
Never dive into murky water
where you cannot see the bottom,
Boulders, rocks, fallen trees and debris lurk below…
sight un-seen.
Weather conditions
Know local weather conditions and forecasts.
Never swim during a thunder and lightening storm.
Personal floating devices
Use Coast Guard-Approved Personal Floatation Device (PFD) when around water,
especially when on a boat or around lakes,
rivers, streams or ponds, where water is not clear. Time is critical when trying to locate
a submerged body…
SECONDS COUNT.
(The fit of a life jacket is vital, especially for a child.)
Murkey water
Know what is in and under murky water,
such as currents, drop-offs.
Avoid swimming in water that is filled with debris,
is discolored or unusually foamy and dirty.
Boats in area
If in water shared by boats BE VISIBLE…
wear a bright colored hat, stay close to shore, s
tay in designated swim areas,
and actively watch for water craft
in proximity to swimmers.
Changing conditions
Limited visibility can change from hour to hour. Currents are unpredictable
and can quickly change directions.
A swimmer can be carried way from the shore.
Moving water
If a child falls into water go down stream
(in the direction of the current) and position self
in front of the child to help.
Throw out a line or rope if possible
for person to grab on to.
Cold water
Leave water if you feel chilly.
Hypothermia (drop in body temperature)
can occur when in cool/cold water
for even short periods of time.
Marine life
Avoid swimming in areas where there is
underwater foliage and water plants.
It is very easy to get entangled
and not be able to break free.
Safe swim zones
Restrict swimming to
the designated SAFE swimming areas
clearly marked by buoys.
Vacation Safety
Establish rules
Use the same safety rules that you use at home. Take time to explain to your children
the importance of following these same rules.
No Life Guards
When visiting a hotel never allow
children to swim alone.
DO NOT assume that someone else
is watching your child.
Most hotel pools do not have lifeguards on duty.
Spas
Do not enter spas that exceed 104 degrees.
Only enter spa if it is clean and clear.
Relatives homes
Whenever staying with relatives or friends
assess for water hazards.
Be aware of pools, ponds, lakes, canals,
and/or rivers that may be in the area.
Hotel pools
Check out the safety aspects of the pool
and ensure that the water is
clean and clear of hazards.
Take cell phone to pool
or know where phone is poolside.
© Wallypogs 2010