Drowning is a leading cause of unintentional injury-related death in the world. Therefore, it is critical to keep people informed of the recommended ways of preventing such unfortunate accidents. This guide aims to address the steps you can take to ensure your safety and that of your loved ones while near water bodies.
Swimming, boating, and going to the beach are popular activities, especially among the 18-24 age group. The three activities are enjoyable and fulfilling, but they expose individuals to the threat of drowning. However, observing some of the best safety and health practices helps to prevent drowning and ensure that one participates in water activities confidently.
Importance of Water Safety
Water-based activities remain a subject of wild passion and excitement for young people, especially the 18-24 age group. Whether swimming, boating, or spending quality time at a beach, water-based activities ensure more moments for fun, relaxation, and thrill. Nonetheless, it is essential to understand that these activities have many risks because drowning affects a considerable number of the globe’s population.
The World Health Organization reports that drowning kills over 236000 people every year, and a significant proportion of those deaths occur in low- and middle-income countries. This tragic loss of life calls for immediate and effective action, as “drowning is a neglected public health threat.”
It is crucial to educate people about proper water safety practices. Armed with that knowledge and practice, one can diminish the risks and minimize the chances of ending up in a drowning scenario, thus making such a pastime a pleasurable and, eventually, safe experience. This is not only one’s duty but one’s responsibility towards everyone else, as proper water safety can decrease the number of deaths and improve overall well-being and safety for entire communities.
Proven Drowning-Prevention Best Practices
The drowning figures are horrifying, but they don’t have to be. Don’t let the abundant statistics become a reality; follow these practices to save yourself, your family, and everyone else from adding up on these figures.
Acquire Proper Training
One highly beneficial approach to help improve water safety is to get training. You can take a pool lifeguard training course from the aquatic safety training academy or school water safety broome. These courses will teach you how to effectively perform water rescue and first aid methods and respond to emergencies. With your Pool Lifeguard certification, you will feel more confident identifying and responding to dangerous conditions in and around the water.
Supervision is key
A prospective individual involved in such water activities must endeavor to seek proper supervision at all times. In this case, a responsible adult or an appropriately trained Pool Lifeguard should always be around. Children should never be left unattended in the water.
Learn how to Swim
Swimming is a basic skill that decreases the threat of drowning significantly. Enhance your swim skills and acquire additional essentials by taking swim classes from the Pool Lifeguard Training Course Perth
or Pool Lifeguard Training Course Broome that teaches swimming techniques, floating and tread water, and basic rescue concepts.
Put on the Appropriate Gear
Wearing suitable safety equipment benefits you and makes you safer. Make certain you and your relatives put on a close-fitting life vest while doing water-based activities like river sports. Wearing life jackets helps you establish a strong barrier against wetness and raises the chance of staying protected in an urgent scenario.
Be Aware of Environmental Danger
When engaging in water activities, you should first become acquainted with the hazards of the environment you will be operating in. Before swimming in open water, do research on water conditions, such as currents/tides and any hazards beneath the surface, and be aware of any seasonal variations that can affect the area’s safety.
Don’t Consume Alcohol and Drugs
Alcohol and other substances like drugs affect your ability to make sound judgments and use your body’s judgment and coordination abilities. Alcohol and drug use heightens drowning risks, and you must avoid using them when engaging in activities around water bodies to guarantee your safety and others.
Be familiar with CPR and first aid
You should always be prepared if the worst happens and a drowning occurs. CPR or Cardiopulmonary resuscitation and first aid skills might save a life. Find a training site that offers an official educational program so that you’ll be prepared for safety in an emergency.
Create a Safety Plan
Additionally, a detailed safety plan should be developed to explain what to do in an emergency. In this case, research the location of the nearest emergency services, make sure that you have a functional communication unit, and research the location of the closest medical institutions.
Regular Practice
Moreover, like everything else in life, water safety is not a one-off achievement; it requires regular practice. Convince your family and other friends to participate in water-related activities regularly to refresh and improve their abilities and influence them to do so.
Wrapping Up
Drowning is a tragedy that can be prevented. With the above best practices in water safety, the chances of this incident occurring can be minimized. Remember that your safety and that of your loved ones are paramount as you enjoy your water activities and invest in the proper training, equipment, and knowledge to provide you with the best experience. Be prepared, stay vigilant, and make water safety a lifelong commitment.
Sign Up for our pool lifeguard training course in Perth and ensure your and your loved one’s safety.
