This time of year is the best for people to be found having fun with the water—be it by swimming at the beach, enjoying a boat on a lake, or just splashing around in the pool. Great fun is fun with responsibility—water safety must always be on the top. Drowning is a leading cause of accidental death worldwide, and most accidents can be prevented with the right education and precautions.   

In this article, we will discuss some of the main principles of water safety, the role of lifeguards, and how organizations such as the American Lifeguard Association (ALA ) contribute to the safety of swimmers.  

 Why Water safety is Essential  

Every year, there are thousands of water-related accidents in this world, and many of those could easily have been avoided with better awareness. Only in the U.S., the Centers for Disease Control indicate that nearly 11 people succumb to drowning in a day, and for every drowning-related death, five others receive emergency care for non-fatal submersion injuries.  

At the very least, children and inexperienced swimmers are the potential victims of strong swimmers swimming under hazardous conditions. This is again important during the understanding of safety protocols in aquatic activities for everyone who enjoys following them.  

 Prime Water safety Tips in the Summer  

1. Swim in Designated Areas with Lifeguards  

It highly ensures one’s safety when swimming positively only in supervised areas by lifeguard personnel trained to identify signs of distress, perform rescues, and administer first aid. And American Lifeguard Association (ALA) is one reputable organization that needs to be part of any lifeguard certification, proving the lifeguard holds proficiency in handling emergencies.   

• Beaches: Swim only within sight of lifeguard towers and marked zones.  
• Pools: Choose facilities that have certified lifeguards on duty.  
• Lakes and Rivers: Lifeguard presence is even more critical here, as they have hidden dangers, such as currents and drop-offs.  

2. Always Swim With a Partner  

Even the very strongest swimmer can be struck with sudden cramps, currents, or even a sudden change in weather. With the buddy system, someone could then call for help if needed.  

3. Know How to Swim and Improve Swimming Skills  

Improving swimming skills through formal lessons reduces the risk of drowning in young children by 88 per cent, according to the National Institutes of Health. Various courses are on offer by the American Lifeguard Association: from beginning swimming to advanced lifeguard training.  

4. Constantly Attend Kids Supervision  

Drowning can silently and rapidly take place. If children come anywhere near water, an adult must always do the following:  

• Stay within arm’s reach.  
• Remove distractions (phones, books, etc.).  
• Use U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets for weak swimmers.  

5. Learn Rip Currents & Water Conditions  

Rip currents account for the majority of rescues at beaches. If you find yourself caught in one:  

• Don’t panic and don’t swim out.  
• Swim parallel to the beach until free, and then head toward land.  
• If you can’t escape, float and wave for help.

6. Stay away from alcohol and drugs around water   

Alcohol makes you lose your judgment, coordination, and balance and is a significant factor in almost 70% of water-recreational fatalities among young men and women. Thus, swim or boat within clear minds. 

7. Have a Life Jacket on  

Most drowning victims never intended to enter the water (boaters, for example, or fishermen); a life jacket can keep you afloat even if you are unconscious. 

8. Understand the Basics of CPR and First Aid  

Drowning victims have up to two or three times the chance for survival with instant CPR. CPR and first aid training from the American Lifeguard Association are provided for both professionals and the public. 

Lifesavers at Play in Water safety  

Drowning is prevented by first-line defence through lifeguards. The American Lifeguard Association (ALA) emphasizes on standard lifeguard training in the following three key areas:  

• Surveillance & Prevention – Identify and intervene in struggling swimmers before any more serious self- or life-threatening distress occurs;  
• Rescue Techniques – Assist victims for their protection in aquatic hazards;  
• First Aid & CPR – Provide initial care until the arrival of emergency medical services;  
• Emergency Action Plans – develop coordinated responses to incidents. 

If lifeguards do not specialize in training, most public swimming areas can quickly become terrifyingly unsafe. Making a commitment to their training and recognition will help secure water safety in the nation. 

Boating and Water Sport Safety 

There are only a few activities beyond swimming that require boating, jet skiing, and other water activities:  

• Check weather forecasts before heading out.  
• Follow capacity limits on boats to avoid capsizing.  
• Engines should be switched off while swimming in open waters to stay safe.  
• Be conspicuous with bright clothes and lighting if swimming in open water.  

End Statement: Protect Yourself and Have Fun with Water. 

Water safety is more of a readiness and preparation state than a fear state. Besides following these directives and supporting training programs for guards like the American Lifeguard Association, everyone can take full advantage of water with less risk. 

Before you swim, ask yourself: 

• Is there a lifeguard there? 
• Are my swimming skills up to par (or my children’s)? 
• Aware of potential hazards, currents or even changes in weather? 

The precaution should make summer entertaining and safe for all who love being around water. Stay alert, stay educated, and make water safety a priority!  

About the American Lifeguard Association (ALA): 

The ALA is the premier certifying organization for lifeguards in the water safety arena, committed to high-quality training and programming to improve water safety. From lifeguard certification to CPR and first aid courses the ALA provides resources for professionals and the public to prepare for, perform prevention, and respond to aquatic incidents.  

Learn more about lifeguard training resources by visiting the official American Lifeguard Association website.  

This summer, definitely stay safe and make a splash!