SWIM AWAY, BUT DON’T FORGET ABOUT WATER SAFETY

By Trishna Buch
With Spring Break upon us and summer fast approaching, it is guaranteed that visits
to the pool, waterparks and the beach will be increasing tenfold. From swimming to
surfing to jet-skiing to watersports and more, there is no shortage of water-based
activities one can immerse themselves in during the summer months, or anytime the
weather calls for it. Which, as we all know, is almost every day in Texas.
Now, in the midst of all these activities and excitement, it is important that we do
not forget the fact that water can be dangerous. Yes, it’s necessary for survival, but
dealt with in an incorrect manner and it could harm, and possibly kill you. And no
one wants that to happen. Fortunately, there are ways to keep yourself safe when
in the water.
First of all, always, ALWAYS, use the right lifeguard. These lifeguards must be
approved by the United States Coast Guard, must be the proper size for the person
who will be wearing it, must be easily accessible and must be serviceable condition.
And, not only this but, any person under the age of 13 must have a lifejacket on at
all times when on a moving boat, ship or other vessel, unless they in a closed cabin
or below deck. There are life jackets for men, women, children and pets, different
types for swimmers, non-swimmers and boaters, different types for cruising, paddling,
waterskiing, hunting, angling and racing and they come in different colors and
styles for different uses.