Summer, Swimming And Safety!

FAMILY

summer, Swimming, AND safety!

With warm weather comes outdoor fun; we’ve been looking forward to it all winter! But it’s also a time of increased accidents. With water abounding in our area, here are some water safety reminders:

• Never leave a child unattended (no matter how good a swimmer).

• Invest in Coast Guard-approved life vests (“water wings” and other fl oatation devices are not suitable substitutes).

• Teach your children to swim at an early age (consult your doctor for appropriate age).

• If a child is missing, check the water fi rst (seconds count!).

• Watch for signs of hypothermia even in warm water (when lips are bluish and your child is shivering, it’s time for a break!). • Drink plenty of water (it is ALWAYS important to stay hydrated while outdoors).

• Carry extra equipment (spare life vests, rope for throwing, fl oats, etc.).

• Shout, Throw, Call (If someone is drowning, the Red Cross suggests the following in this order: shout for help, throw a rescue or fl otation device, call 911 if needed).

• It’s ok to swim after eating (while exercising in general can be uncomfortable on a full stomach, the need to wait 30 minutes is a myth).

LOCAL RESOURCES:

YMCA

(Lake Norman Family Branch) (704) 716-4400 www.ymcacharlotte.org

Discovery Aquatics

(Mooresville) (704) 975-6625 www.discoveryaquatics.net

Little Otter Swimming School

(Huntersville) (704) 243-8738 www.littleotterswim.com