Water Safety

Swimming and boating are favorite summer activities. Whether you're by the ocean, at the lake or in you own backyard pool, following these simple safety rules will help protect you and your family.

• Always wear lifejackets when boating.

• Never drink while operating a boat.

• For jellyfish stings, rinse the area with seawater then apply vinegar. Scrape stingers out of the skin with an object, not your hands.

• Always watch children carefully, even in a few inches of water in a backyard wading pool.

• If you have a pool in your backyard, make sure it is fenced in and that children learn about safety on slides and diving boards.

• Don't assume someone can't drown because he knows how to swim. Many things can lead to drowning, including too much sun, tiredness, rough play and alcohol.

If you'd like to receive a "Safe Summer" packet in the mail, please send your name and address to info@southcoast.org. The packet includes sun screen, summer recipes and our tip cards.

This information is not a substitute for consultation with a personal physician.

Links & Resources

Water Safety Tips from the American Red Cross