Summertime is here! It's a great time to review some basic safety tips on swimming and fireworks.

Swimming Tips

• "Children Drown Without a Sound." Even if your child knows how to swim, keep an eye on them or make sure there is a lifeguard on duty. Drowning can occur in under two minutes, so its best not to leave your child unsupervised.
• Especially if you go swimming in mountain lakes, test the water's temperature before plunging in. Cold water can shock the body's system and cause a child to freeze-up or hyperventilate. They may then be unable to swim or yell for help.
• Flotation Devices are great, but beware that you child can flip upside-down while wearing them or slip out of them if the device is too large.
• Teach your children not to chew gum or eat while swimming as they could choke. Avoid swimming for at least 20 minutes after you eat so your stomach does not cramp up.
• Teach your child about depth markers. If they dive in too shallow of an area, they are in danger of hitting their head on the pool's bottom.
• Teach your child how to swim at an early age to prevent future swimming accidents.
• CPR can be a great tool to have in your back pocket, especially if you live far from a hospital. Many YMCAs or Red Cross facilities offer public classes.

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