In the past weeks, we have focused quite a bit on safety and prevention awareness. We consider these to be essential in minimising avoidable accidental deaths. Sadly, a number of people succumb to drowning, with young children being especially vulnerable.

Below is a quick guide on preventing drowning and what to do in case of emergency.

Drowning prevention

There are many ways you can prevent yourself or your child from drowning:

  • Learn how to swim and teach your children how to swim.
  • Supervise children on the bear, near the pool or any deep mass of water.
  • Children under age of 5 should be within arm’s reach (touch supervision).
  • Use inflatable arm, ring or arm-vest float only under supervision.
  • Always wear a life jacket in the boat. Life jackets should be the right size for your kid.
  • Keep a life-preserver with a rope by your pool.
  • Install a self-closing, self-latching fence around your swimming pool.
  • Swim closer to areas where you are visible to lifeguards.

Important warnings!

  • Don’t be distracted
  • Avoid alcohol on beach
  • Avoid swimming alone in open water
  • Avoid swimming during bad weather
  • Do not swim in areas with strong currents
  • Do not swim in areas designated with a ‘no swimming sign

What to do in case of emergency

If you find yourself in an emergency, do not panic and act quickly.

  • If you fall off the boat and have no life jacket, keep your head above water and tread the water slowly until help arrives.
  • If you can swim safely onshore and it is within sight, do so. If visibility is low, stay put as you may swim further into sea.
  • Float on your back if you are having difficulties swimming or you become tired until you are pulled in.
  • Safely pull a drowning person out of water.
  • Perform CPR if there is no sign of life.
  • Call emergency services once the person is in recovery.
  • “If you are caught in a rip current, swim parallel to shore until you escape the current, and then swim back to shore”.

Take extra precautions when you are on the beach and keep safe.