BOISE – As temperatures continue to top 100 degrees in parts of Idaho and across the country, many Americans are turning to boating and swimming to beat the heat. But AAA reminds the public to take the necessary precautions to stay safe.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 3,500 people drown each year in the U.S. AAA says that recreational boating crashes can also result in serious injuries and significant property damage.
“Idaho offers some of the best outdoor recreation there is, and having a safety mindset ensures that everyone has a great time,” says AAA Idaho public affairs director Matthew Conde. “Please make wise decisions – we don’t want anyone’s summer overshadowed by a dangerous or even deadly experience.”
Boating safety tips
- Properly equip your boat with life jackets for everyone aboard. Bring along a whistle, horn, or bell, and emergency items such as a paddle or oars, a first-aid kit, a supply of fresh water, a tool kit and spare parts, a flashlight, flares, and a radio.
- Carry one or more fire extinguishers based on the size of the boat, and keep them accessible for immediate use.
- Before you launch, check weather forecasts to ensure good boating conditions.
- Distribute passengers and cargo evenly, without overloading the boat.
- Know and obey marine traffic laws.
- Keep a lookout for other watercraft, swimmers, and floating debris.
Swimming safety tips
- Use a safety cover when your pool is not in use, and surround it with a fence or other barrier with a self-closing, latching gate.
- Keep lifesaving equipment nearby.
- Supervise the pool or swimming area at all times. Have inexperienced swimmers use a life jacket and stay in the company of an adult.
- Regularly check the area for potential hazards – glass bottles, toys, and other tripping hazards.
- Don’t leave toys or floats in the water when not in use. Kids may fall in trying to reach them.
- Take CPR and first aid classes so that you have the training to help friends and loved ones.
“One of the signs that someone is in distress is when they appear to be trying to ‘climb a ladder’ out of the water. Because they’re so focused on survival, they may not even cry out for help,” Conde said. “Years ago, my wife had researched the signs of drowning before our vacation. Armed with this knowledge, she recognized and responded to a child in distress that was just feet away from a parent.”
AAA reminds boat and pool owners to carry the necessary insurance coverage, and that alcohol and watersports don’t mix.