Swimming is a fun and healthy activity that allows people to exercise, relax, and enjoy the water. However, water can also be dangerous if proper safety precautions are not followed. Drowning can happen quickly and quietly, so learning how to stay safe around water is an important way to protect yourself and others.
One of the most important safety rules is to never swim alone. Always swim with a responsible adult nearby who is actively watching the water. Even experienced swimmers can become tired, injured, or caught in strong currents. Whenever possible, choose a swimming area where a trained lifeguard is on duty.
Wearing a properly fitted life jacket is another important way to stay safe. Life jackets help keep your head above water if you become tired or unexpectedly fall into deep water. They should always be worn while boating, fishing, kayaking, or participating in other water activities. Make sure your life jacket is approved for safety and fits correctly.
Learning to swim is one of the best ways to reduce the risk of drowning. Swimming lessons teach important skills such as floating, treading water, and safely reaching the side of a pool. However, even strong swimmers should never ignore water safety rules. Dangerous situations, such as rough water or sudden cramps, can happen to anyone.
Safe behavior around the water is just as important as knowing how to swim. Never run on wet pool decks because they can be slippery. Avoid pushing, dunking, or playing rough games in or near the water. Always follow posted safety rules and listen carefully to lifeguards and supervising adults.
If you see someone who appears to be drowning, stay calm and get help immediately. Alert a lifeguard or another adult right away. If no lifeguard is present, call 911 as quickly as possible. Do not jump into the water to rescue someone unless you have been trained in water rescue techniques. Instead, if it is safe to do so, throw the person a life ring, rope, or another floating object and encourage them to hold on until trained rescuers arrive.
If a person is removed from the water and is not breathing, an adult should call 911 immediately. A trained adult should begin CPR if needed and continue until emergency medical personnel arrive. Quick action during the first few minutes of an emergency can greatly improve a person's chance of survival.
Drowning is preventable when everyone follows basic water safety rules. Swimming with supervision, wearing a life jacket, learning to swim, and knowing how to respond during an emergency can save lives. By making safe choices every time you are around water, you can help protect yourself, your family, and your friends while enjoying water activities.
Dr. Maanasa Chittari is a resident physician who sees patients of all ages and provides obstetrical services at Lone Star Family Health Center, a non-profit 501(c)(3) Federally Qualified Health Center operating facilities in Conroe, Spring, Willis, Grangerland, Huntsville and Magnolia and serving as home to a fully integrated Family Medicine Residency Program to increase the number of Family Medicine physicians for Texas and our community.