Page 36 - SOM Summer 2017

SAFETY FIRST
buzz | tidbits

BE WATER SAVVY & WATER SAFE

ools, rivers, ponds, and beaches mean summer fun and cool
Prelief from hot weather. But water also can be dangerous for
kids if parents don’t take the proper precautions. Nearly 1,000
kids die each year by drowning, with the majority happening in
home swimming pools. It is the second leading cause of acci-
dental death for people between the ages of five and 24. The
good news is there are many ways to keep your kids safe in the
water—and make sure that they take the right precautions when
they’re on their own.

INVEST IN YOUR CHILD’S SAFETY
Purchase proper-fitting, Coast Guard-approved flotation life
vests and have kids wear them whenever near water. Check the
weight and size recommendations on the label, and then have
your child try it on to make sure it fits snugly. For kids younger
than five years old, choose a vest with a strap between the legs
and head support—the collar will keep the child’s head up and
face out of the water. Inflatable vests and arm devices such as
water wings are not effective protection against drowning.
KEEPING KIDS SAFE
Fencing is your best measure of protection for a backyard pool
and should be at least four feet tall. Pool covers and alarms have
not proven effective against drowning for very young children.

IT’S IMPERATIVE
Above all else, supervise your kids at all times when around
water—whether the water is in a bathtub, wading pool, fish
pond, pool, spa, the beach, river, or lake. Never assume because
your child took swimming lessons or is using a flotation device
that there is no drowning risk.

Water play can be a great source of fun and exercise. Teach your
child that safety is a priority and that they never swim alone.
And don’t forget the sunscreen!

Since 2007, Kohl’s Cares has awarded over $177,000
in grants to Asante for health focused outreach pro-
grams to the community.

34 www.southernoregonmagazine.com | summer 2017