Water Safety

For many people, summer just wouldn't be summer without visits to the beach or pool.

While water activities can seem like fun, they pose risks, some of which are serious. Luckily, many of these risks can be avoided with a bit of thoughtful planning. Whether you aim to stay fit, cool down or simply have fun in the water this summer, make safety a top priority.

Choose Locations Wisely

Even the best swimmers face water-related risks, such as potential injuries and disorientation. Use the buddy system, taking a friend along routinely, and choose beaches and pools with on-duty lifeguards. Stay in the lifeguard-supervised areas, paying attention to signs that warn of hazards, such as jellyfish, rip currents, drop-offs and sharp coral. With younger children, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends "touch supervision" — making sure your child stays no more than an arm's length away at all times.

Wear a Life Jacket

Unskilled swimmers and young children should wear life jackets whenever they are around water — even at water parks. The American Red Cross recommends donning a jacket when you're on dry land, such as on the deck or shore, and keeping it on until you return. Everyone should wear life jackets on boats. Make sure yours fits well and features the U.S. Coast Guard approval stamp. If a strap is loose or broken, have the jacket repaired or replaced. Keep in mind that inflatable toys, such as inner tubes, cannot substitute quality life jackets.

Protect Yourself from the Sun

Water and sand reflect UV rays, which makes sunburn more likely. Take extra caution by applying sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher that protects against UVB and UVA rays. Apply it generously to exposed skin at least 15 minutes before you head outdoors, giving it time to activate. If you can't reach a body area, use a spray sunscreen or ask for help. Reapply sunscreen at least every two hours and after sweating or swimming. For added protection out of the water, wear a wide-brimmed hat for shade. UV-blocking sunglasses help protect your eyes from sun damage and protect your lips by using a balm with 15 SPF or higher.

Stay Hydrated

Summertime heat and exercise increase the need for more fluids. Stay hydrated to lower your risk for dehydration and illnesses, such as heat stroke. Drink water before you head to the beach or pool. Once you're there, take breaks to drink water or, when you're particularly active, sport drinks. Sports drinks are designed to replace electrolytes — minerals your body loses through sweat. Fruits and vegetables, such as melons and cucumbers, also provide water and electrolytes. For an energizing, hydrating snack, have a fruit smoothie.

Set Guidelines

Set guidelines for you and your loved ones to ensure water safety. If a family member is just learning to swim, for example, have them avoid deeper water and always wear a life jacket. Don't allow anyone to swim around suction devices or drains in pools. They can have vacuum-like effects, raising the risk for suction entrapment when a swimmer becomes stuck under water and can't breathe. This can lead to injuries and even death. Make sure no one heads out to swim without basic essentials, such as sunscreen and drinking water.

How do you keep you and your loved ones safe in the water?

Sources:

American Academy of Pediatrics: Sun and Water Safety Tips

The American Red Cross: Life Jackets Aren't Just for Boats

American Academy of Dermatology: Sunscreen: How to Apply

International Association of Certified Home Inspectors: Pool Drain Hazards Inspection

Iowa State University Extension and Outreach: Fluids

Author Bio:

August McLaughlin is a health and sexuality writer and certified nutritionist in Los Angeles. Her work is featured in numerous magazines including "Healthy Aging," "CitySmart," "DAME" and IAmThatGirl. She holds specializations in eating disorders, healthy weight management and sports nutrition and loves connecting with readers and writers via her blog, Facebook and Twitter.

Photo Credit:

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Clinical Review By/Date:

Reviewed by Amy Magill, MA, RD, LDN on June 12, 2015.