SUMMER FUN AND WATER SAFETY
As the weather warms up, people are heading to the beach, lake or backyard pool for a little fun. While a great way to cool off, it’s also worth remembering that water can be deadly. Drowning is the leading cause of death of children ages 1 to 4, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Drownings are also the second leading cause of preventable death in all children through age 15. Being proactive and taking precautions is necessary when you and your family are near water.
Never leave a child unattended in water – even in a bathtub. Teaching children to swim is a lifelong long skill that saves lives. Everyone, adults and children, should know how to swim. Remember though, lessons are not guaranteed drowning protection. In public spaces, swim only where there is lifeguard protection. And don’t treat lifeguards like babysitters. Keep a close eye on your children. If you can’t find your child, look in the pool first. Backyard pools must be fenced-in properly and have locking gates. Automatic pool covers, which can cover in-ground pools when not in use, are also a great safety feature. There are also water motion alarms that can alert you when something or someone over 15 pounds goes into your pool.
At the beach, be aware of rip tides and undercurrents. If you are caught in a rip tide, swim parallel to the shore then swim diagonally back to land. Never swim alone. Enjoying time near water means you must give your child your undivided attention. The American Red Cross has more information on water safety.
With 2026 being an El Nino year, strong storms are expected across the country. One last water safety tip, “Turn around, don’t drown.” The National Weather Service’s (NWS) public awareness campaign warns the public of the dangers of driving or walking through flood waters. During a flood, you can’t see how deep the water is, or what is just beneath the surface. A mere six inches of water can reach the bottom of most passenger cars, causing the driver to lose control or stall. A mere foot of water can float many vehicles, while two feet of water can carry away sports utility vehicles.
The NWS also advises us to become weather aware. Unusually heavy rain storms can cause flash flooding without any notice. Flash flooding can occur anywhere – near normally gentle flowing streams, underpasses or even urban streets. Three summers ago, a mother and her two young children died after their vehicle was washed away during a flash flood while driving along a road that ran near a creek in Bucks County. The NWS warns motorists to not drive into flooded areas. If you find yourself in your car with floodwaters rising, abandon the vehicle and move to higher ground if you can do so safely.
Delco Alarm Systems hopes everyone has a wonderful and safe summer.