Be careful in the water this festive season

Water safety tips which could save a life.

Be careful in the water.

Follow these tips for safe swimming and water-related activities this festive season:

Public swimming pools are usually supervised by lifeguards, however, accidents still occur:
Read and obey notices.
Follow the instructions of pool lifeguards.
Ensure that the water depth is appropriate for swimming or diving.
If you are a weak swimmer, stay away from the deep water.
Check that the water is clear of other people before jumping or diving.
Play safely and do not hinder the enjoyment of other swimmers.
Don’t force anyone to swim to the deep end of the pool if they cannot swim.

Water safety in and around rivers, dams and lakes:
A river has a continuous and often fast current that, when combined with submerged logs, overhanging branches and other obstacles can create extremely dangerous situations.
Take extreme care when entering rivers, because of their changeable nature.
Lakes and dams may present a deceptively still, flat appearance that can promote false sense of security, however, conditions may change.
Be careful not to stand on an overhanging bank, it can collapse.
Before entering the water, check for the presence and strength of the current.
If caught in a fast, strong river current, travel feet first in order to protect the head and body from serious injuries.
If drawn over a weir, immediately dive to the bottom, tuck into a ball and hold your breath until thrown to the surface.
Before attempting to dive, check the depth and explore the bottom to locate any hazards.
Enter cold water slowly and remain in only for a short period.
Be aware of streams, creeks, ponds, ditches, etc., that may be located on or near your property.
Make certain that a responsible adult knows the whereabouts of small children at all times if there is any water nearby. If a child is missing, search the water area first to save valuable seconds.