Summer is Here - Everyone Into the Water!
The Law Offices of Joe Bornstein wants all of its friends and family to have a fun-filled summer in the pool, at the lake, or by the ocean. Still, we caution everyone to know the safety rules of swimming and to be aware that the water can pose dangers if we are not careful.
In 2005, 3,582 people in the United States drowned, with one in four fatalities occurring in children under the age of 14. In an attempt to reduce this number, and to make sure we all have a safe summer in and around the water, the Law Offices of Joe Bornstein asks everyone to know these safety rules:
- Always swim with a buddy, and preferably under the supervision of a lifeguard. Never venture into a pool, lake, or the ocean by yourself.
- Always read and obey posted swimming signs. They are there for your safety.
- Never leave a child alone in or near the water. Be attentive while watching, as tragedy can strike quick, and always be prepared to help if the situation calls for it.
- According to the Today Show, parents are advised to stay within an arm's reach of children.
- If your child uses air-filled or foam toys, be aware that these are toys and NOT safety devices. If a child is wearing water wings you must still supervise them, as these often provide unstable bouyancy.
- Do not dive into shallow or unknown waters, as serious neck and back injuries may occur.
- Be aware of the local weather. It's best to stop swimming at the first sign of bad weather, and never swim in a thunderstorm.
- Avoid swimming immediately after eating. It's best to let your food digest so you can avoided getting cramps, which hamper your ability to swim and maneuver in the water.
- Don’t drink and swim. Alcohol impairs your judgment and should be avoided if you are going to spend time in and around the water.
- Watch for dangerous rip currents in the ocean. The water may turn unusually calm, but it's powerful current can pull even the strongest of swimmers out to sea. The majority of beach drownings and lifeguard rescues are due to strong rip currents, where swimmers become exhausted from trying to fight the current and swim to shore. If you are caught in a rip current, swim parallel to the shore until you are free of the current, where you can catch your breath and swim safely to shore.
- And most importantly, get certified in CPR - it save lives. Contact an American Red Cross near you to learn more.
There’s nothing like a hot summer day spent splashing around in the water. At the Law Offices of Joe Bornstein, we want to be sure all of your summer swims are happy, refreshing, and safe.
Now everyone into the water! After all, it is summer in Maine!
