Water safety tips from Seattle Children’s

July 2, 2010 | By More

With people turning to water activities to enjoy the summer weather, the risk of drowning is a concern. Cold waters and warm weather make for increased drowning risk.

Over 1,500 children and teens die every year in the U.S. from drowning. Most of them are swimming, boating or just playing in or near water. We can prevent drownings if we all do our part!

Please feel free to air or post the following water safety tips:

  • Yes, it’s summer, but in some areas open water temperatures remain cold. Pacific Northwest waters are cold enough to cause hypothermia even on the hottest summer day; hypothermia may weaken even the strongest swimmer.
  • Know your limits – drowning often happens when a person tires while swimming or a novice swimmer tries to keep up with friends who are stronger swimmers.

Keep Yourself Safe

  • Learn swimming and water safety survival skills.
  • Always swim with others.
  • Obey all safety signs and warning flags.
  • Never go in the water after drinking alcohol.
  • Know how and when to use a life jacket.
  • Swim in areas with lifeguards.
  • Know the water and weather conditions before getting in the water.
  • Always enter shallow and unknown water feet first.

Keep Others Safe

  • Help and encourage others, especially children, to learn swimming and water safety survival skills.
  • Swim in areas with lifeguards.
  • Set water safety rules.
  • Always provide close and constant attention to children you are supervising in or near water.
  • Know how and when to use life jackets, especially with children and weak swimmers.
  • Learn first aid and CPR.
  • Learn safe ways of rescuing others without putting yourself in danger.
  • Obey all safety signs and warning flags.

With planning and care, everyone can enjoy their time around water.

For more information on water safety and drowning prevention, please visit:

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Category: Safety, Seattle Children's

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