With the warmer days approaching, it won’t be long until we’re all heading down the local waterhole, river, creek, swimming pool or beach to cool off and unwind. The water can be loads of fun, no doubt about it! But it can also be dangerous. We need to be aware of the dangers and take care when in and around the water, so everyone can have a splashing good time! Keep the Children Safe The water is especially hazardous for young children. Drowning is the most common cause of death for children under five. So make sure they are constantly supervised when they are in and around the water. Learn to Swim If you don’t know how to swim, now is the time to enrol in swimming lessons! There are lessons to cater for everybody, no matter what your age. It’s never too late to learn, and you won’t regret it. Contact your pool or aquatic centre or call the Royal Lifesaving Society of Australia to find out about their Swim and Survive programs or Bronze Medallion courses in your local area on 1300 737 763. With the warmer days approaching, it won’t be long until we’re all heading down the local waterhole, river, creek, swimming pool or beach to cool off and unwind.
The water can be loads of fun, no doubt about it! But it can also be dangerous. We need to be aware of the dangers and take care when in and around the water, so everyone can have a splashing good time!
Keep the Children Safe
The water is especially hazardous for young children. Drowning is the most common cause of death for children under five. So make sure they are constantly supervised when they are in and around the water.
Learn to Swim
If you don’t know how to swim, now is the time to enrol in swimming lessons! There are lessons to cater for everybody, no matter what your age. It’s never too late to learn, and you won’t regret it.
Contact your pool or aquatic centre or call the Royal Lifesaving Society of Australia to find out about their Swim and Survive programs or Bronze Medallion courses in your local area on 1300 737 763.
Waterholes, Rivers and Creeks
Be wary when returning to your favourite swimming spot this year. Moving water changes riverbeds, altering their base and depth. What may have been a great place to swim last year might not so now.
You might think you know your local swimming hole well enough, but don’t become overconfident. The water at waterholes, rivers and creeks is often unclear, making it hard to judge depth. The water’s edge is often steep and slippery, making it easy to slip in and hard to get out!
Diving or jumping into these waters is also extremely dangerous. It’s much safer to slide or wade in.
You should only swim in a river if you’re a strong swimmer. This is because they have very strong currents that can tire a weak swimmer out, or even sweep them downstream.
Beaches
Beaches are great fun. To make your time at the beach fun and safe, follow these simple rules.
1. Swim between the flags at patrolled beaches. The red and yellow flags mark the area that is safe to swim in.
2. Swim where a lifeguard or lifesaver is on patrol.
3. Read and obey all surf safety signs.
4. Ask a lifeguard what the conditions are like if you are unsure.
5. Don’t swim directly after a meal.
6. Never swim under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
7. Never run and dive into the water, even if you have checked the depth before. Water conditions change.
8. If you get in trouble while in the water, don’t panic. Float on your back, raise your arm for help and wait for assistance.
9. Know the waves and the surf. If you get caught in a rip, stay calm and don’t panic. Keep afloat and raise one hand for help. Once you are past the breakers, swim parallel to shore and catch waves in or wait for a lifesaver to rescue you.
10. Respect your abilities in the water.
Oh, and don’t forget to put on your sunscreen, and wear a shirt, hat and sunglasses.
Swimming Pools
When at your local swimming pool, read and follow the pool rules. They may change slightly from pool to pool, but they usually go along the lines of: no running around the pool, no pushing, and no bombing. They will tell you areas you can and cannot dive into, and where you can and cannot take food. They will also point to which areas are for babies, children, and adults.
Backyard swimming pools should be appropriately fenced. Remove any floating toys after use so as not to tempt young ones to reach in for them – they might fall in the water.
If children are wearing personal flotation devices like armbands and rings, make sure they carry the Standards Australia symbol and registration number.
Children must always be supervised when in and around the water, as young ones, particularly toddlers, are attracted to the water.
Make sure someone knows what to do in an emergency, including basic resuscitation techniques. Resuscitation courses are run by St John’s Ambulance. Call to find the course nearest to you.
Have fun in the water and play it safe!
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