Before You Go In The H2O

Water Safety Tips during National Water Safety Month

As the warm weather comes to Newaygo County, residents and visitors will be hitting the many rivers, lakes and pools in the area. May is National Water Safety Month and the Newaygo Fire Department wants to ensure community members have a safe, enjoyable time.

From 2005-2014, there were about an average of 10 unintentional drowning deaths per day in the United States according to the Centers for Disease Control. And one in five of those who die from drowning are under the age of 14.

“We want families to have a safe, enjoyable time while participating in water-related activities,” said Jason Wolford, Chief of Newaygo Fire Department. “It’s important that those heading out on the water for the day are prepared in case of an emergency.”

Whether you are enjoying the many natural water features or a pool, take these simple steps to reduce the risk of water-related accidents:

• Learn to swim well. Almost two million people of all ages learn to swim each year with Red Cross Program  
• Always closely supervise children whenever they are near any body of water.
• Weak or inexperienced swimmers should wear U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets anytime they’re around water.
• Know how to respond to an emergency (including lifesaving CPR skills), how to tell if a swimmer is in distress or drowning and how and when to call for emergency help. If you have a pool or hot tub, keep lifesaving gear handy.
• Always have on hand a ring buoy, life jackets, rope, pole or other objects that can be used to help a person in trouble.
• Be sure to have a first aid kit, phone and emergency contact information by the pool.
• Avoid drinking alcohol before or during swimming, boating, tubing or water skiing. Do not drink alcohol while supervising children.
• Always know weather and water conditions before you going into the water.

For additional home fire safety information, visit newaygofire.com.

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