Today, let’s talk about avoiding drowning danger on vacation. It is finally summertime and that means it’s time for vacations and fun-filled adventures. Of course, even though the world is opening back up, it doesn’t mean there isn’t still danger out there. When it comes to water safety, our mission is always to provide as much information as possible to keep you informed. Today, let’s talk about avoiding drowning danger on vacation.
Avoiding Drowning Danger on Vacation
Water safety remains a top priority for this blog. Over the past few years, we have provided multiple guides to help keep people safe, whether they are at home or on the open water. Today, we are talking about how to avoid drowning danger on vacation.
The facts are plain: drowning danger is extremely prevalent. According to the World Health Organization, drowning is the second leading cause of unintentional injury and death in children aged 1-14. Furthermore, according to the CDC, an average of two children under the age of 14 die from unintentional drowning each day. Even a quick glance at our monthly posts about drowning stats should illustrate that this is serious business for everyone.
The simple fact of the matter is this: while on vacation, everyone lets their guard down. It’s kind of the point of vacation. Unfortunately, this is not really an option for parents. Child safety never takes a break. As a result, neither can parents or guardians.
On vacation, a normally vigilant adult may let their guard down and trust that the hotel or beach lifeguard will handle any possible trouble that arises. Sadly, this could not be further from the truth. When it comes to avoiding drowning danger on vacation, parents must remain attentive.
Active Supervision is ALWAYS Important
Practicing active supervision is always critical for safety.
While by the pool or water, be sure to remain free of distractions. This includes the phone, a book or even casual conversation with other folks. It only takes a moment for tragedy to strike.
Don’t Drink and Swim
Depending on where you are swimming, alcohol may or may not be encouraged. As a blanket rule, alcohol and water do not mix. Believe it or not, the American Safety Council reports that 70% of deaths from recreational water activities involve alcohol.
It may seem fun, but being inebriated during a drowning situation can easily lead to tragic results. Avoid drinking and swimming to mitigate drowning danger on vacation.
Check the Hotel Water
Just like swimming in a community pool, a hotel pool has a lot of swimmers. It is crucial that you take extra care to make sure the water is sanitary and safe. Make sure your children know to never drink the pool water. It can have harmful chemicals or bacteria. To learn more, read our full article about the potential dangers of the public pool. Many of these tips will also be relevant to avoiding drowning dangers on vacation.
Wear Water Shoes
This may not seem like such a big deal, but wearing water shoes can be very effective at beaches, water parks and pools. Anyone who has ever walked on a rocky beach knows how sharp some rocks and shells can be. The same can be said about the harsh concrete near water parks and pools. Water shoes can provide a tremendous amount of relief for your feet.
Typically, water shoes should cover your entire foot area, including the top. On the bottom, they feature thick soles that guard you from jagged stones, hot cement or concrete, stubbed toes and whatever else your feet may come in contact with. Made from flexible material, water shoes are specially designed for activity and to help prevent you from toppling over on slippery surfaces.
