Bridge to Wellness
Make a splash this summer: Tips for safe summer swimming
by Mary Wagner
One of the joys of summer is making a splash when the weather is warm. From pools to lakes to rivers, Michigan offers many options to enjoy the water. However, drowning incidents have been on the rise, so know your risks and follow these tips to keep safety at the center when enjoying the water. NOTE: For some eye-opening statistics on drownings, go to Facts & Stats About Drowning – Stop Drowning Now)
- Provide close and constant attention to children. Flotation and lifeguards are not a replacement for adult supervision. When in a group setting, take turns designating a “water watcher,” rather than assume someone is watching children swim. For young and inexperienced swimmers, stay within arm’s reach. Avoid distractions such as cell phones.
- Never Swim Alone. Emergencies can happen at any time. The buddy system adds safety, even for experienced adult swimmers. Make a plan—as a family or with your buddy—for what to do in the event of an emergency.
- Take precaution with layers of protection. Reduce risk by using U.S. Coast Guard–approved life jackets and staying within arm’s reach of children. Most drownings occur when a child has wandered away. If you have a pool, ensure it has a latching gate or barrier to prevent unsupervised access. Bright colored swimsuits can make it easier to keep an eye on where someone is in the water. And while you’re at it, wear your sunscreen and sun protection, and stay hydrated.
- Follow Boating Safety. Always wear the appropriate life jacket when enjoying the water. Michigan law requires an appropriate personal flotation device (PFD) for each passenger on a personal water craft. Children ages 6 and under must have a lifejacket on at all times. Another reminder: Alcohol and water don’t mix! Drownings are more likely to happen when alcohol and drug use occur while boating and swimming.
- Swim in Designated Areas. Buoyed areas and designated beaches are there for a reason. Stay within designated swim areas and designated swim times. When possible, swim under the supervision of a lifeguard. The conditions of the Great Lakes can change quickly, and some areas have rip currents, so do some extra research before you go to the bigger lakes.
- Learn to Swim! Swimming is a wonderful skill. It is a great form of exercise and has been shown to reduce the risk of drowning. It is never too early or too late to learn this valuable life skill. Continue to keep swimming skills strong year long.
- Additional Resources: Take advantage of some free water safety tips and information online:
- Red Cross online resources to learn more about water safety
- Great Lakes Water Safety Consortium at Great Lakes Water Safety
- Great Lakes Water Safety at michigan.gov/dnr/education/safety-info/beach-safety
This column is sponsored by the Stockbridge Area Wellness Coalition. Mary Wagner is a Community Lifestyle Coach at Chelsea Hospital.
