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It's that time of the year when swimming activities heat up with the weather. Atrium Health Floyd wants to make sure your spring and summer days at the lake or pool remain pleasant by following some safety precautions.
Watch the kids; don't swim alone
Drowning results in more deaths among children ages 1 to 4 than any other cause except birth defects.
Whether in a pool or a lake, children need to be monitored carefully. When a crowd is present, don't assume someone else is watching your child if you step away to get a drink of water or a hot dog.
"Never assume someone else is watching your child. Parents should always monitor their own children, and they should choose a designated watcher if they have to leave while their kids are in the water," said Lt. Dusty Johnson, with Atrium Health Floyd EMS. "In a crowded pool it is easier than you think for a child to go under and not be spotted."
It is also recommended that everyone swim with a friend. Swimming alone in an area that has no lifeguard is dangerous, even if you are an adult and a strong swimmer. A muscle cramp or sudden illness could impair your ability to stay afloat and get back to a safe place.
"I know that some adults might think it is silly, but swimming without a friend is just not smart. There are too many terrible things that can happen, and having a friend present just might save your life," Johnson said.
Keep very young children in "touch range". If you can't touch them, they can easily go underwater.
Don't drink and swim
Drinking alcohol and swimming is not smart. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, alcohol is involved in nearly one-fourth of emergency department visits for drowning in the U.S.
"Many people associate drinking and water activities, but that combination is extremely dangerous. Aside from hampering your balance and coordination, alcohol also impairs your judgment," said Johnson. "That means you shouldn't be drinking even if you are only supervising other swimmers."
Stay Hydrated
"Swimming can be strenuous, so make sure to drink plenty of water before and after swimming to avoid dehydration," said Katie Hasty, injury prevention coordinator with Atrium Health Floyd's trauma team.
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Use Life Jackets When Necessary
Hasty also suggests wearing a life jacket or personal flotation device in situations where you're unsure of your swimming ability (such as boating, kayaking, or swimming in deep or open water).
Take Breaks
Take regular breaks, especially if you're swimming for long periods, to avoid fatigue and cramps, Hasty recommends.
Be aware of the water
Johnson said swimmers should take the time to scope out where you are swimming if you are in a lake or a river. Don't dive into water if you don't know how deep it is or what might be in it. If you are swimming in the ocean, be aware of rip currents.
A rip current can pull you out into deeper water and make it exceedingly difficult to swim directly back to shore. If possible, swim where lifeguards are present and be aware of weather advisories that can indicate if there are any dangers.
Empty kiddie pools
While it is not convenient to empty and refill inflatable pools on a daily basis, Johnson recommends doing just that. It doesn't take much water to be a danger for an unwatched toddler. Even the water in a large cooler can present a hazard.
"It's a pain in the neck to drain and refill small pools each day, but they really do present a danger," said Johnson. "And while you might know what your little ones are doing, a neighbor's toddler could wander onto your property. Taking the time to empty wading pools out each day could prevent a tragedy."
Learn CPR and First Aid
Knowing basic CPR and first aid can make an enormous difference in an emergency. Hasty recommends taking a course so you're prepared for any situation.
The Rome-Floyd YMCA offers summer swimming lessons for members and nonmembers starting Monday, June 2. The two-week sessions will end on July 31 as the start of school approaches. For more information, call the YMCA at 706-232-2468.