Wisconsin Waterways Summer Safety Tips and Advice

What Are Some Basic Summer Water Safety Tips?

By Product Expert | Posted in Fun Stuff, Safety, Tips and Info on Thursday, May 25th, 2017 at 2:18 pm

Water Safety Tips and Advice

Summer is a season of excess. Camping, fishing, boating, Wisconsin Dells and Bar-B-Q’s by the pool just to name a few frequent activities, and the common denominator is water. Whether at a lake, river or just the neighborhood pool, water is ever present and even the strongest swimmers should still practice caution and follow these water safety tips and advice.

Never Swim Alone!
- Even strong swimmers can be swept away by the current
- Children should use the “Buddy System”
- Swim in designated areas only
Inexperienced Swimmers Should Always Wear A USCG Approved Life Jacket
- Life Jackets need to be worn at all times!
  - Even in shallow water
  - Even if a Life Guard is on duty
  - How to properly fit a Life Jacket
- Actively Watch Your Children
  - Life Guards are not baby sitters
  - Avoid distractions such as cell phones
- Always Wear Sunscreen
  - UV rays penetrate through clouds and can cause burns even on overcast days
- Waiting 30 Minutes After Eating is a Myth
  - No study has ever linked swimming after eating to cramps or any other detrimental condition
  - Swimming is an exhausting activity and staying hydrated is important. Eating light healthy options like fruits, veggies and granola can help avoid feeling bloated in the pool.
- Call 9-1-1 Immediately in Case of an Emergency

Secondary and “Dry” Drowning

Secondary and “dry” drowning sounds like something out of science fiction but it is real although rare. Secondary drowning is when water builds up in the lungs causing a pulmonary edema. This liquid in the lungs prevents oxygen from reaching the bloodstream. Symptoms to watch for are “bubbly” sounding breathing, coughing up a pink frothy spit or if skin begins to look gray and/or blue. “Dry” drowning is a condition where water is continually breathed in causing the vocal cords to spasm and eventually swell shut. These conditions are very rare and generally happen well after children have finished swimming, so the best remedy is early prevention. The best way to help prevent secondary and “dry” drowning is to watch children closely and dissuade “dunking” and rough play in the water. If you notice a child coughing or in-taking water have them take a break from the pool to ensure excess water is not ingested. Have fun this summer and stay safe.