Did you know?

How to keep safe during summer water sports


Virtually everyone likes to take advantage of the warm summer months to get out and be active. It’s good for young and not-as-young alike! Nonetheless, precautions are necessary. There are a few ways to keep your summer water sports all about fun and with minimal risk.

  1. Know how to swim. This is a no-brainer but a surprising number of people participate in water sports without being able to swim.
  2. Wear a life jacket or “personal flotation device.” According to 2006 statistics, about 90 percent of those who died in a boating accident were not wearing life jackets or some other kind of flotation device. Being able to float without strenuous effort is crucial when waiting to be rescued.
  3. Don’t go out on the water alone. It’s better to be safe than sorry. A buddy may help when the need arises or go find someone who can.
  4. Let family and/or friends know where you are going and for how long. That way if you are not back in a timely way, they will know where to search for you.
  5. Check all equipment you are using before going out on the water. Make sure your motorboat, jet ski, water skis, kayak, scuba gear, etc. are in good functioning order. Also check all flotation devices, radios, mobile phones, fire extinguisher, first aid kit, noisemaker, flares and anything else you have on board.
  6. Be prepared by planning your outing. Make sure everyone who is participating is aware of the plan and knows how to use the safety devices being brought along.
  1. Children should be tended to and never left alone. Drowning is the second leading cause of death for children between the ages of one and 14. All children should wear personal flotation suits or devices whether they are in the water or the vehicle. Adults must monitor them at all times.
  2. Be aware of the weather. Know what the weather forecast is for the day of the outing. Then, on the actual day, watch for any signs of changing weather, so you have time to get to safety if needed.
  3. Wear sunscreen and re-apply as needed. Overexposure to the sun can cause severe sunburn. The general rule of thumb is to apply sunscreen appropriate for your skin type at least 20 minutes before going out, then re-apply every couple of hours or after each dip into the water.
  4. Do not drink alcohol when participating in water sports, because it can make you less alert and prevent you from acting quickly during a critical situation.