Marking World Drowning Prevention Day, Blueguard, the UAE’s leading water safety and first aid company, is on a mission to raise awareness and save lives through essential water safety education.
With the heat of summer now fading, the outdoor life and allure of water-related activities is upon us.. In their pursuit of water safety excellence, Blueguard highlights the following crucial points.
OVERALL TIPS TO CONSIDER:
1 Safe swimming practices: Swim only in designated areas supervised by lifeguards, adhering to posted signs and guidelines.
2 Knowing the conditions: Understand weather and water conditions before swimming in open water settings to avoid dangerous situations.
3 Boat and water sports safety: Always wear life jackets and comply with water safety rules.
4 Empowering with CPR and first aid: Enrol in Blueguard’s CPR and first aid courses to equip yourself with life-saving skills.
Before entering the water, have a well-defined exit strategy in place
TOP WATER SAFETY TIPS FOR HIKERS AND WADI EXPLORERS:
1 Stay clear of unstable bank edges: While hiking next to open water, ensure a safe distance from the bank edges to avoid slips, trips, and falls due to instability.
2 Always explore with a friend: Opt for hiking and exploration with a companion, never venture alone, as this enhances safety and provides immediate assistance in emergencies.
3 Proper lighting during low light: For hikes before sunrise or after sunset, ensure correct lighting and visibility to prevent any unforeseen hazards.
4 Plan for a clear and safe exit: Before entering the water, have a well-defined exit strategy in place to swiftly and securely leave the area.
5 Check water depth: Assess the water’s depth before entering, reducing the risk of unexpected submersion and ensuring a safer experience.
6 Learn basic survival skills: Equip yourself with essential survival skills to effectively handle unforeseen water-related challenges and emergencies.
7 In case of a fall, stay calm and float: If you accidentally fall into the water, stay calm, float on your back to conserve energy, and call for help immediately.
HOW TO KEEP CHILDREN SAFE:
1 Active supervision: Actively supervise children around water, staying within arm’s reach and avoiding distractions to be ready to respond promptly.
2 Restricted access: Secure pool areas with fencing and gates to restrict children’s access to water, ensuring their safety even when unsupervised.
3 Teach water safety skills: Beyond swimming, impart essential water safety skills to children, fostering confidence and competence around water.
4 Emergency preparedness: Acquire water rescue skills and CPR knowledge to be well-prepared in handling any water-related emergencies effectively.