MID-ILLINOIS RED CROSS TIPS FOR AN ENJOYABLE SUMMER

Before Heading to the Pool or Beach
    
Learn to swim. Check with local Parks and Recreation Departments to sign up.
Children or inexperienced swimmers should take precautions, such as wearing a U.S. Coast Guard-approved personal floatation device (PFD).
Set water safety rules for your family based on swimming abilities (inexperienced swimmers stay in water less than chest deep).
Protect your skin: Limit the amount of direct sunlight you receive between 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. and wear a sunscreen with a sun protection factor of at least 15.

Once You Arrive

Pay attention to local weather conditions and forecasts. Stop swimming at the first indication of bad weather.
Swim in areas supervised by a lifeguard; read and obey all rules and posted signs.
Always swim with a buddy; do not allow anyone to swim alone.
Teach children to always ask permission to go near water.
Actively supervise children whenever around water-even if lifeguards are present.
Flotation devices and inflatable toys cannot replace parental supervision.
Always stay within arm's reach of young children.
Avoid distractions when supervising children around water.
If you own a pool, secure it with appropriate barriers.
Watch out for the dangerous "too's" - too tired, too cold, too far from safety, too much sun, too much strenuous activity.
Drink plenty of water regularly and often even if you do not feel thirsty.
Wear sunglasses that indicate that they absorb at least 90 percent of UV sunlight.Use a feet-first entry when entering the water; on the beach, wear foot protection.
Never swim under a raft or dock.
Always look before jumping off a dock or raft to be sure no one is in the way.
 
Going Boating?

Alcohol and boating don't mix. Alcohol impairs your judgment, balance, and coordination -- more than 50 percent of drownings result from boating incidents involving alcohol.
Use Coast Guard-approved life jackets for everyone when boating and fishing.
Give someone details about where you will be and how long you will be gone.
Find a boating course in your area (U.S. Power Squadron, the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, US Sailing, etc) to learn navigation rules, emergency procedures and the effects of wind, water conditions, and weather.
Help with the ongoing relief work of the Red Cross. Donate to the Mid-Illinois Chapter, by calling 217-428-7758, or stop by 2674 N. Main St. Decatur, IL 62526.