Think Before You Swim

Think Before You Swim

Dynasty Dias-Maxwell, Contributor

The school year is ending, so many kids will be hitting the beaches and pools for some summer fun.

Although swimming is an activity many people enjoy, they forget that it can also be dangerous too.

According to figures released by the USA Swimming Foundation, Florida was the state with the most child drownings in 2017. The drownings last year involved children who were 15 and younger, with 80 percent involving children under the age of five.

Drowning is the leading cause of unintentional death in children ages 1-4 nationwide.

That’s why this summer water safety should be a priority.

Here are four steps from the American Red Cross, so you can stay safe in and around water:

1. Adults should actively supervise children, and kids should follow the rules.

2. Learn to swim well enough that you can perform all five water competency skills. If you can’t, then look for Red Cross Learn-to-Swim classes at ‘https://www.redcross.org/take-a-class/swimming’.

3. Don’t just pack a life jacket. Wear a life jacket, especially on a boat. As well as, in a situation beyond your skill level.

4. Swim in pairs, and swim near the lifeguard.

Following these four steps will help bring the child drowning rates in Florida down significantly.

And don’t worry if you’re older and haven’t learned how to swim because it’s never too late.