Swimming safety

Living in the Finger Lakes region comes with many perks, not the least of which is the access we are able to enjoy to the many lakes in our region.

Throughout the summer many can be found out on the lakes taking advantage of the long, warm days swimming.

But whenever you are out on or in the water, it is good to keep some safety tips in mind.

When it comes to swimming safety is of the utmost importance.

According to the Centers for Disease Control, 4,000 unintentional drownings occur every year.

Drowning is also one of the leading causes of unintentional death in children between the ages of 1 and 9, while children ages 1–4 have the highest drowning rates.

Most drownings among children aged 1–4 happen in swimming pools.

Many of these fatalities occur even with supervision.

According to the American Red Cross, when it comes to swimming, in any body of water, there are some important things to keep in mind.

These include: Swim in designated areas supervised by lifeguards. Always swim with a buddy; do not allow anyone to swim alone. Never leave a young child unattended near water and do not trust a child’s life to another child; teach children to always ask permission to go near water. Have young children or inexperienced swimmers wear U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket s around water, but do not rely on life jackets alone. Maintain constant supervision. Make sure everyone in your family learns to swim well and consider taking lessons at the YMCA or similar organizations. If you have a pool, secure it with appropriate barrier s. Many children who drown in home pools were out of sight for less than five minutes and in the care of one or both parents at the time. Avoid distractions when supervising children around water. If a child is missing, check the water first. Seconds count in preventing death or disability. Have appropriate equipment, such as reaching or throwing equipment, a cell phone, life jackets and a first aid kit and know how and when to call 9-1-1 or the local emergency number.

Also consider enrolling in a home pool safet y, water safet y, first aid and CPR/AE D courses to learn how to prevent and respond to emergencies.

Other safety measures to keep in mind include making sure to have the proper equipment such as well fitting pool covers so that children and pets cannot slip under them as well as surrounding the pool with proper fencing or barriers.

It is also recommended to keep the pool area clear and to keep children away from filters and other mechanicals.

Other considerations include limiting the use of alcohol as the CDC reports that alcohol is involved in 70 percent of all teen and adult deaths associated with water recreation.

When enjoying the summer weather swimming or taking advantage of other activities it is also important to keep some other health tips in mind such as protecting your skin.

Limit the amount of direct sunlight you receive between 10 and 4 p.m. and wear sunscreen with a protection factor of at least 15.

Drink plenty of water regularly, even if you’re not thirsty.

And avoid drinks with alcohol or caffeine in them.