The basic swimming skills (jumping into the water over your head, returning to the surface to tread water for one minute, turning around in a full circle and then finding an exit, swimming 25 yards to an exit and exiting from the water without using a ladder).
Being realistic about your swimming level can help prevent you from entering into water situations in which you could potentially drown.
Children, and adults who enter ponds can easily get drowned. Adding a four-sided fencing area that is at least four feet tall significantly reduces that risk.
Drowning can happen even after someone is rescued from the water. Delayed, or "dry," drowning occurs when the airway closes up due to spasms caused by the presence of water.
Dry drowning usually happens within 24 hours of a water rescue and can also be the result of liquid in the lungs.
Look for continued coughing, trouble breathing, chest pain, fatigue and changes in behavior in rescued persons.
If you notice someone is missing, always check the water FIRST. If you see a person drowning, reach for them from land or throw them a flotation device—if you enter the water, they may panic and latch on to you, dragging you down with them. (The Temple Ponds should have floatation devices)
Untrained people witnessing a drowning incident may avoid becoming involved and could possibly prevent trained lifeguards from initiating rescue because they fear taking responsibility.
If you think you see someone drowning, do not hesitate to alert a lifeguard, even if you're not sure what drowning looks like or think you might be wrong.
Supervise when in or around water: Designate a responsible adult to watch young children while in the pond and all children swimming or playing near the water. Be close enough to reach a child at all times. Adults should not be involved in any other distracting activity while supervising children, even if lifeguards are present.
Use the buddy system: Always get into the pond with a buddy.
Learn to swim: Formal swimming lessons can protect children from drowning, but are not a reason to avoid constant supervision around the water.
Learn CPR: In the time it takes for paramedics to arrive, your CPR ( CPR. Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation) skills could save a victim’s life.
Avoid alcohol: Avoid drinking alcohol before or during swimming and water sports. Never drink alcohol when supervising young swimmers. Those who are under the influence of Alchohol should not be allowed to get into the POND
Protect swimmers: Do not let swimmers hyperventilate before swimming underwater or try to hold their breath for extended periods of time. This can cause them to pass out and drown.
Know weather conditions: Strong winds and thunderstorms can rapidly change water conditions. Always check local weather forecasts before going to the pond (larger pond).
Staying safe in the water is a community effort. Share this post with friends and family to help them educate themselves about how to stay safe this summer, sign up for adult swimming lessons with friends or register for CPR training with your family. Who knows, you might just save a life.
