THE DANGERS OF SWIMMING IN OPEN WATERS
Safety at the pool gets a lot of attention, as it should, but there is another water worry with kids – open water. Lakes, rivers, reservoirs and oceans are all considered open water. According to Safe Kids Worldwide, more children and teens drown in open waters than they do in swimming pools.
“Sadly, our community has suffered from this tragedy recently so we want to offer caregivers some tips to make open water safe for the whole family,” says Abbey Rymarczyk, Safe Kids Greater Dayton coordinator and injury prevention specialist at Dayton Children’s.
While some of the risks are the same as the pool, there are added dangers when you are in open waters. It is hard to judge how deep the water is or how fast the current is moving. The water can conceal plants, rocks or debris at the bottom that can cause injury. There can be steep drop-offs and rapid water temperature changes. “Families also share open water with animals and boats, which each have their own associated dangers,” says Rymarczyk.
Here are few tips that can keep whole family can stay safe open waters:
1. Wear a U.S. Coast Guardapproved life jacket when boating or participating in other activities on the water. Children should wear one appropriate for their age, weight and the water activity. For kids younger than 5, choose a version with head support and a strap between the legs.
2. Teach children that swimming in open water is different from swimming in a pool. Be aware of situations that are unique to open water and alert your children to those conditions.
3. Watch kids when they are in or around water, without being distracted. Keep young children and inexperienced swimmers within arm’s reach of an adult. Make sure older children swim with a partner every time.
4. Use designated swimming areas and recreational areas whenever possible. Professionals have assessed the area, and there are usually signs posted regarding hazards and lifeguard schedules.
5. Teach children to swim. Every child is different, so enroll children in swim lessons when they are ready. Consider their age, development and how often they are around water when deciding if they are ready.
6. Make sure kids can do these five water survival skills:
■ Step or jump into water over their head and return to the surface
■ Turn around and orient to safety
■ Float or tread water
■ Combine breathing with forward movement in the water
■ Exit the water
By being aware of the dangers of open waters and following safety guidelines, you can help prevent tragedy. This look at a children's health or safety issue comes from Dayton Children's Hospital. Email: newsroom@ childrensdayton.org.