There’s nothing like cool water on a hot day…and it is getting hot out there! Soon Connecticut’s shoreline, lakes, rivers and pools will be filled with the sound of children laughing and splashing, escaping the summer heat, and enjoying the magic of the water. Those are the sounds we all love to hear, they are the sounds that remind adults of their youth, and call out to children to join in the fun.
All too often there is another sound around the water in the summertime. It is the sound no one wants to hear. The sound of silence as someone slips swiftly underwater, unable to return to the surface for air.
Each summer, people drown, or have near-drowning incidents that cause permanent damage, in Connecticut’s water ways despite the best efforts of watchful parents, friends and those who work in and around the water. The witnesses always say the same thing: “I can’t believe it happened here.” and “I can’t believe it happened so fast.”
Don’t let yourself, or someone you love, become part of the terrifying silence this summer. Make sure the cries you hear continue to be those of joy, not those of despair. Follow these 5 steps to make your summer swim safer and more enjoyable:
1. Only swim in water that is being actively watched by a professional lifeguard and never swim alone regardless of who is watching you.
2. Don’t over-estimate your swimming ability or let friends or family convince you to try something you aren’t comfortable with. Everyone can enjoy the water, but we must each do so according to our own limits.
3. Follow the rules. Whether you are at a pool, lake, river, or the beach, observe posted signs, warnings and the information given to you by the lifeguard on duty. Those rules are in place for your safety.
4. When in doubt, use a Coast Guard Approved lifejacket to ensure that, even if you make the mistake of getting in ‘over your head’ you will remain safely above the water until help arrives.
5. Enroll in a learn-to-swim or water safety program. Swim lessons allow you to enjoy the water even more as you learn techniques and develop strength and stamina-but be patient. Learning to swim, like any activity, takes time, and the length of time is different for each of us-stick with it though, learning to swim is a lesson that truly lasts a lifetime.
Information about summer swimming programs for all abilities and all income levels can be found at http://www.midymca.org/documents/09_Spring_Summer_Brochure.pdf or by calling (860) 343-6231.
