- Teach children that swimming in open water is not the same as swimming in a pool. Explain rip currents and why they should only swim when lifeguards are watching.
- Teach children not to dive into open water because they may not know how deep the water is or what might be hidden under the surface.
- Ensure children wear life jackets approved by the U.S. Coast Guard while on boats or around bodies of water. The chances of drowning in a boating accident are 1 in 66 if wearing a life jacket and 1 in 11 without one.
- Many boating accidents are alcohol-related. Alcohol, boats and kids can be a lethal combination.
- Infants and children are at a higher risk for hypothermia. So bring a dry blanket or towel for your baby on a boat. Make sure you know CPR. Classes are offered through the American Red Cross and CPR Florida.
SOURCE:
• Safe Kids Worldwide