EAST HAMPTON VOLUNTEER OCEAN RESCUE WATER SAFETY/HANDS-ONLY CPR TRAINING
On Saturday, June 1st, 2019, members of East Hampton Volunteer Ocean Rescue conducted a free-of-charge Water Safety/Hands-Only CPR Training at the East Hampton Library in the Baldwin Family Lecture Room.
WATER SAFETY TIPS
In any suspected emergency always call 9-1-1 immediately. Stay on the phone until Dispatch has all the necessary information. Dispatch will activate the appropriate emergency resources - Police, Fire, Ambulance, Marine Patrol, Coast Guard, and/or Ocean Rescue.
THE GRIM STATISTICS
350 kids under the age of five drown in pools each year nationwide. In this age group, drowning is the second leading cause of death after motor vehicle accidents. Most children were being watched by their parents or caregivers and most accidents happened quickly.
Child Drowning is a silent death.
RULES FOR POOLS
Always instruct your babysitters about potential pool hazards. Those supervising children should not be distracted by phones, books, conversations, or homework. Never leave a child unsupervised by a pool. Remove toys from pool when not in use. Never leave a gate open.
Learn CPR.
When having a pool or beach party - hire a lifeguard! A designated pool watcher is NOT a substitute for a trained lifeguard.
BARRIER PREVENTION AND POOL, FENCE AND DOOR ALARMS
Many communities have enacted safety regulations governing residential swimming pools; it's up to parents to comply with these regulations. Apart from these laws, parents who own pools can take additional precautions to reduce the chances of their youngsters accessing the family pool or spa without adult supervision. Remember: Barriers are not childproof, but they do provide layers of protection for a child who strays from supervision. Barriers give parents additional time to locate a child before the unexpected becomes a reality.
RIP CURRENT SURVIVAL TIPS
According to the United States Lifeguarding Association, "rip currents are the greatest hazard to swimmers on surf beaches."
If possible, swim near a lifeguard. If you are in trouble, shout and wave; circle one arm up with a closed fist for help. Never swim alone and be cautious at all times.
If in doubt, don't go out!
If caught in a rip, remain calm to conserve energy and think clearly. Don't fight the current. Swim parallel to the shoreline. If unable to swim out of the rip current, float or calmly tread water. When out of the current, swim toward shore.
"WHEN THUNDER ROARS, GO INDOORS!"
As a rule, lightning occurs most frequently within 10 miles of a thunderstorm, but bolts of lightning can travel as far as 20 miles from the storm. Stop all outside activities and seek shelter in a solid building or hard-topped vehicle.
Wait 30 minutes after the storm to resume activities. Beaches and bodies of water do not offer protection from lightning.
BOAT WATER SAFETY
Always wear your Personal Flotation Device (PDF). If you capsize, remain with your boat and call for help. Always dress for the water temperature. Swim-test your gear every time you go out. Imagine the worst that could happen and plan for it.