Every summer we go on vacation to a lake or a pool. How can I keep myself and my child safe when we are swimming this summer?

Swimming is a good way to exercise and cool off in the summer. Every summer, both children and adults are injured or drown at the beach or pool. Many young people die from drowning in lakes, public pools and children’s pools. Children are at higher risk of injury and drowning because they like to play in the water, move quickly and can drown in as little as one inch of water. It is important to remember some basic safety tips when you and your children are swimming at a pool or a lake.

Constantly watch children at all swimming areas. Children should never be left alone around pools and lakes. Drowning and other accidents can happen silently within seconds. Children who cannot swim and very young children should be kept within your reach while they are in or near water. Use a life jacket or approved flotation device if your child is less than three-years-old. It is important for you and your child to take swimming lessons and water safety courses. Adults should never swim alone. Use a buddy system.

There are many hazards in and around lakes and pools. The area around pools can be wet and slippery. Running may lead to falls. If there is a handrail available use it to get out of the pool. It can be very dangerous to wrestle and play in the water. You or your child can hit your head on hard objects like rocks or hard walls. You can drown very fast if you lose consciousness from hitting your head. Suction lines and drains can catch hair, clothing, arms and legs holding you or your child under water. Railings, ladders, rocks and logs can trap you or your child under the water. If you are diving, you can hit your head on objects under the water that you cannot see. Always look before you dive or jump. You should enter the water slowly and feet first. Jumping on other swimmers can injure both of you.

Whether at the pool or beach, always read the signs. Rules and warnings help protect you and will alert you to invisible hazards like strong currents and drop-offs. Do not drink alcohol and do not go beyond your abilities. Stay within designated swimming areas. Do not go too deep into the water. At lakes you can swim parallel to the shore keeping you a safe distance from shore.

For more information about swimming safety, or for available programs and services, contact Health Link Alberta where nurses are available 24-7 to provide health advice and information. Call 1-866-408-LINK (5465) or 780-408-LINK (Edmonton area) or 403-943-LINK (Calgary area).