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Home » Consumer Information » Water Safety

Inland Water Safety

Every year many people visit inland bodies of water to enjoy a day of swimming and boating. Spending time at a lake, river or pond can make for a great outing, as long as you practice good safety measures.

Planning ahead

When planning a trip that involves being in or around water, find out if everyone in your group knows how to swim. Those who don't should learn how before spending time in deep water. It's easy to find classes that will teach both kids and adults to become strong swimmers.

There are a few things you should before leaving the house to spend a day on the water. Always check the weather conditions to make sure the forecast calls for a nice, sunny day. Pack a few key safety items such as sun screen, sunglasses with UV ray protection, a well stocked first aid kit and a cell phone that will have service wherever you are going. Make sure everyone who will be in the water has their own Coast Guard approved life vest that fits them well. Take some footwear that can be worn in the water to avoid stepping on glass, rocks or other sharp object with bare feet.

Investigating the lake, river or pond

Before you get in to any body of water, check it out thoroughly first. Find out how cold the water is and how quickly the current flows. Look at the water to see if it is clear and clean, or murky and dirty. Avoid getting in water that is too dark to see through. It could be polluted, or have hazardous conditions that you can not see.

It's best to find an area that is officially sanctioned as a public swimming spot. These locations will often have lifeguards, and will be well maintained for public safety. Remember to follow any instructions a lifeguard gives you - they are there to help keep you safe.

If a dock available, test it slowly at first to make sure it is solid and in good shape. Never dive off of any dock without checking the water first to find out if it is deep enough. Every year people are seriously injured and even killed by diving into water that was too shallow.

Supervising children

Anytime kids are around a body of water, they must be carefully watched at all times. Do not let them go into the water alone, go in with them and keep everyone in your group in close proximity. It only takes a few minutes for a child to drown, and it is just not worth the risk.

Boating

Operating a boat in a public area comes with extra responsibilities. When you are using your boat, be aware of and courteous to everyone who is in the water. Try to keep the boat at least 300 feet away from other vessels, and stay at least 100 feet away from people in the water.

No drinking allowed

Drinking alcohol while spending time on the water can lead to disastrous results. The alcohol will cause your reflexes to slow, and you will not be able to react to potential hazards as quickly as you otherwise would. Alcohol is one of the leading factors in the high number of drownings that happen every year. Never mix time on the water with drinking.

When others are in danger

If you see someone is in trouble in the water and no lifeguard is present, you must know how to help them without endangering yourself or others. Try to get the person to remain calm. Do not swim out to them, a person who is panicking is likely to drag you under the water. The best thing to do is throw something out to them that they can grab on to, and then pull them in. Get them to a shallow area before you get close. If they are not breathing, administer CPR and have someone call 911 immediately.

Preparing for a day at a lake, river or pond should include preparing for safety as well as a fun time. Arm yourself with a little knowledge about how to remain safe, and have a great day out.