Every year on May 15, International Water Safety Day brings global attention to the critical issue of drowning and aims to educate youth about becoming safer in and around water. This observance is dedicated to spreading awareness about the drowning pandemic and promoting water safety education, particularly for children and communities with limited access to such resources.
On this day, various activities take place in local communities worldwide, including school programs, swim team workshops, and community outreach initiatives, all aimed at fostering a culture of water safety.
The National Water Safety Coalition, comprising prominent organizations like the American Red Cross, the National Drowning Prevention Alliance (NDPA), the National Recreation and Park Association, the Pool & Hot Tub Alliance, and the World Waterpark Association, plays a crucial role in this effort. The coalition urges everyone to become “water smart” by adopting and promoting water safety practices not just on International Water Safety Day, but throughout the year.
“Always provide constant, capable supervision when kids are in or around water. This applies even when lifeguards are present. Parents are the first line of defense, so if your child is in the water, you should be too,” emphasized Rick Root, President of the World Waterpark Association. His advice highlights the essential role parents and guardians play in preventing drowning incidents.
Sabeena Hickman, President and CEO of the Pool & Hot Tub Alliance, underscores the importance of swimming lessons in preventing drowning. “Enroll your child in swim lessons. Visit StepIntoSwim.org for more safety tips and information on how to find the right swim lesson for your child,” she advised. Learning to swim is a critical skill that can save lives, making it a fundamental aspect of water safety education.
Adam Katchmarchi, Executive Director of the NDPA, encourages community involvement in water safety initiatives. “Share water safety awareness and education in your community by using NDPA’s Water Safety Season Toolkit and learning the 5 Layers of Protection,” he said. These layers include supervision, barriers, emergency preparedness, water competence, and life jackets, all of which are vital in reducing drowning risks.
Additionally, William D. Ramos, a member of the American Red Cross Scientific Advisory Council, recommends educational resources for parents and caregivers. “Learn what it takes to be safer in and around the water by taking the free online course, American Red Cross Water Safety for Parents and Caregivers, and download the Red Cross Swim app,” he suggested. These resources provide valuable information on water safety practices and emergency response.
7 Important Tips for Enjoying Water Safely Throughout the Summer
- Supervise Constantly: Always watch children when they are in or around water. Designate a responsible adult to maintain vigilant supervision.
- Learn to Swim: Enroll in swimming lessons to improve water competence for both children and adults.
- Install Pool Fences: Install fences and barriers around pools to prevent unsupervised access by young children.
- Wear Life Jackets: Use life jackets that are properly fitted and approved by safety standards, especially for non-swimmers and during water activities.
- Learn CPR: Being trained in CPR can make a significant difference in emergencies. Ensure you and others in your community know how to perform CPR.
- Avoid Alcohol: Do not consume alcohol while supervising children or participating in water activities.
- Educate Your Community: Share water safety knowledge and resources with your community to promote a collective effort in preventing drowning.
By observing International Water Safety Day and implementing these safety tips, we can all contribute to reducing the risk of drowning and ensuring safer water experiences for everyone.
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