Water Safety
On a hot summer day, nothing feels better than a dip in the pool. Swimming is great exercise and a lot of fun, but before you jump in, make sure you know the facts about water safety.
    | Learn to swim.The best way for you to stay safe is to learn how to swim. The American Red Cross and the YMCA offer swimming classes for people of any skill level. Check with your local pool or your school to see if they offer any swimming classes.Never swim alone.Always swim with a friend while an adult is watching. Also, follow the rules of your parents, the lifeguard, and the pool where you are swimming.Stay out of the water during storms.Being in the water during electrical storms is dangerous.Don't dive into water unless you know how deep it is.Enter feet first if you don't know the depth. All above-ground pools are too shallow for diving.Don't chew gum or eat while you're swimming.You could easily choke. Also, avoid swimming right after a big meal.Stay clear of diving boards while swimming.The person diving off the board may not see you.Don't dunk or jump on other swimmers.Someone could get hurt.Don't use inflatable toys or mattresses in deep water.They could deflate or tip, putting you in water over your head. If you are just learning to swim and need a flotation device, use a life jacket instead. |
