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Open water and boating pose different dangers than pools
- 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
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Related resources
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Palm Beach County Parks & Recreation Department
Manages 104 park properties spanning more than 8,500 acres, including 85 developed regional, district, community, beach and neighborhood parks
561-966-6600 Website Email -
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American Red Cross — South Florida Region
Services and programs for families facing emergencies
561-833-7711 Website Email -
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Safe Kids Palm Beach County
Local child safety information and assistance, including car seat installation, helmet fitting, poisoning prevention, TV tip-over prevention and more
561-841-3500 Website Email -
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Safe Kids Worldwide
National resources to protect children from preventable injuries
202-662-0600 Website Email