How to stay safe in the water ahead of summer season
AIKEN, S.C. (WRDW/WAGT) - Temperatures are warming up, and people are starting to hit the water.
Drowning is unfortunately something that happens to people of all races, ages and genders.
We spoke with JP Hammond, aquatic coordinator at the Aiken YMCA, to learn what parents and swimmers need to look out for ahead of the summer season.
Hitting the pool, lake or river this time of year is a great way to beat the heat, but it’s important to stay safe while cooling off.
Hammond advises parents to keep a vigilant eye while their children are in or near a body of water.
Organization keeps public informed on CSRA water quality
Veterans for Clean Water provides weekly testing throughout the summer to keep the public informed on the water quality of local rivers and lakes.
“Pay attention to where your kids are, where they are in the pool, and especially what they’re doing,” said Hammond. “It helps us as lifeguards out.”
Hammond also advises children to do one thing before they get into the water.
“The thing for the kids is always, always, always ask permission before you go in any pool,” said Hammond. “Whether that’s asking mom, dad, grandma, aunt, uncle. Ask the lifeguards. You always, always ask permission and then never swim alone.
One thing that can help parents keep an eye on their child is putting them in a bright color swimsuit.
“Yellows, pinks, even bright greens for pools are fine. Reds are easy to see. Blue,” said Hammond.
Safety tips before heading out to kayak this summer
With the summer quickly approaching, it’s important to know how to have fun safely.
Bright swimsuits are not the only thing to pay attention to before you go to the pool. Having proper life jackets and flotation devices is also a necessity.
“Coast Guard-approved life jackets, they float better. They’re more secure on the person’s body. They’re not as easy to slip out of,” said Hammond.
And , anyone can fall victim to drowning. So, stay vigilant around water.
Swimmers in the world still have lifeguards at the Olympics.
The YMCA Aiken pool opens Memorial Day weekend.
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