Remember to practice water safety this summer!
Read more about how to wear a life jacket, the importance of water safety, and how to protect yourself and your loved ones this summer.
Did you know body heat can be lost four times faster in cold water than in cold air? When your body hits the water, you can experience cold shock—rapid breathing, a spike in heart rate and blood pressure. Wearing a life jacket, even if you know how to swim, is the best thing you can do to stay safe in the water this summer and any time of the year!
How to fit a life jacket:
The life jacket has to fit to do its job. Keep these tips in mind when selecting a jacket for you. Life jackets come in many shapes, sizes, colors and materials. No matter which style you choose, it is very important that you choose one that's not too big, not too small, but just right. http://oregonmetro.gov/watersafety
When shopping for a life jacket, size matters. Rather than getting one to grow into, make sure the jacket fits snug on the user.
It’s important that a life jacket fits properly—check the label for height and weight requirements.
Water safety for all ages:
Regardless of your age, anyone can learn how to swim. It’s never too late to learn basic swim and water survival skills. Swim lessons are hard to come by this summer, but some lessons might still be available in your area:
o Tualatin
o Portland
In general, it’s always best to teach children to always ask for permission to go near water. Continue to supervise around water, even once kids get older.
Remember:
Knowing how to swim will not drown-proof any person at any age.
Drowning isn’t just a risk to young kids. Many drowning victims are young adults, especially in open water.
Never swim alone. Use the buddy system, even when swimming with a large group of friends.
Don’t use alcohol or drugs before or while swimming, diving or supervising swimmers.
Overall Safety Tips:
Here are some things to keep in mind once children enter adolescence:
Learn how to swim. It’s never too late to learn basic swim and water survival skills.
Continue to supervise. It can save lives. Knowing how to swim will not drown-proof any person at any age. Never swim alone. Use the buddy system, even when swimming with a large group of friends.
Choose natural water swimming spots carefully. Swimming in a river or lake is very different from swimming in a pool. Be aware of the risks before you go.
Wear a life jacket.
Lower your risk of drowning: learn to swim, bring a buddy, know the risks of natural water and plan your trip.