Be Safe At The Lake!

It’s summer – time to head to the lake! Wisconsin has over 15,000 inland lakes, 43,000 miles of rivers, and 650 miles of Great Lakes coastline – it’s no surprise that swimming and boating are favorite summertime activities for our families. Before you dive in, here are some important water safety tips to think about:

Swim Safely

The Facts: Between 1994-1999, an average of 38 children ages 0-18 drowned in Wisconsin each year. National statistics show that for every child who drowns, four more are hospitalized, and as many as 20% of those survivors suffer severe neurological disability. For every hospital admission, an additional four are treated and released from the emergency room.

Swimming Safety Tips:

· Children need constant adult supervision while swimming. The adult should know how to swim, how to get emergency help, and should not be engaged in other activities.

· Teach children to always swim with a buddy, and to never swim alone or in unsupervised places.

· Beware of flotation toys. Air-filled toys, such as “water wings,” do not provide protection from drowning. Other floatation toys, such as air mattresses or noodles, may allow children to drift into deeper areas where they can’t swim.

· Enroll children age 4 and older in swimming classes. Swimming classes are not recommended for children under age 4.

· Don’t dive in unfamiliar water - always jump feet first.

Boat Safely

The Facts: In 1999 there were 167 boating accidents in Wisconsin, resulting in 18 deaths, 117 injuries, and over $500,000 in property damage. In 1998, less than 25% of children who drowned in boating-related incidents were wearing Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs).

Boating Safety Tips:

· All boaters should wear PFDs

· Boating operators should take a Wisconsin DNR boating safety course.

· Follow state laws regarding operation of boats. In Wisconsin, a 10 or 11 year old may legally operate a boat under the supervision of an adult. Children age 12-15 may operate a boat alone if the have completed a Wisconsin DNR boating safety course. Otherwise, operators must be 16 or older.

· The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that no children under age 16 operate a personal watercraft.

· Never consume alcohol or other drugs while boating.

· Watch for swimmers, fallen skiers, and other obstacles while boating.

· Boat at safe speeds. Watch the weather.