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Since the temperatures are regularly hitting the 70’s and higher, and we’ve passed the unofficial start of summer with Memorial Day, the desire to get out and fish, float or kayak the river, or spend a day at Boysen, is increasing.
Hot Springs County Public Health is associated with the Safe Kids Worldwide program, which recently shared an article about keeping kids safe when planning water activities.
According to Safe Kids, adults should watch kids when they are in or around water, without being distracted.
Young children and inexperienced swimmers should be within an arm’s reach of an adult, and older children should swim with a partner every time.
It’s important to make sure children learn how 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.
Make sure kids learn water survival skills and are able to 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 and exit the water.
Teach children that swimming in open water is different from swimming in a pool. Be aware of situations that are unique to open water, such as limited visibility, depth, uneven surfaces, currents and undertow. These potential hazards can make swimming in open water more challenging than swimming in a pool.
Wear a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket when boating or participating in other recreational activities on the water. Children should wear a U.S. Coast Guard-approved personal floatation device (PFD) appropriate for their age, weight and the water activity. For kids younger than 5, choose a PFD with head support and a strap between the legs.
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.
Additional information, such as further awareness of water hazards and instructions on properly fitting life jackets, is available at safekids.org
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