Red Cross Offers Water Safety Tips

The American Red Cross in Nassau County wants everyone to enjoy all that summer has to offer. And what would summer be without dips in the pool and trips to Long Island's beaches. Yet for all the fun water can be this summer, it can be equally dangerous if you don't take a few precautions.

"We are all looking forward to a lot of fun with our family and friends this summer," says Matt Crimmins, director of health and safety for the Nassau Red Cross. "We just have to remember it's not fun if it's not safe. With a little planning and a few safety rules, we can all beat the heat and enjoy ourselves at the same time."

Remember these simple tips when near any water:

* Learn to swim and swim well. Contact the Nassau Red Cross for information on learning how to swim.

* Never leave small children unattended near water - not even the bathtub - not even for a moment! Adults should practice "reach supervision," which means to always be within arm's length when a child is near water in case of emergency.

* Keep lifesaving gear handy. Always have on hand a lifejacket, rope, pole or other object that can be thrown to a person in trouble. Remember to have a first aid kit, cordless phone and emergency contact information by the pool.

* Know when it's too dangerous. If you, or someone you are swimming with, appear to be too cold, too far from safety, been exposed to too much sun, or had too much strenuous activity, it is time to head for shore or signal for help.

* Eliminate temptation. Backyard pools should have self-closing, self-latching gates that remain locked when the pool is not being used. Kiddie pools should be emptied and toys removed immediately after use. Empty water pails and buckets so small children cannot fall in and drown.

* Know what you're getting into. Check local tides, currents and other conditions that could be dangerous before entering open bodies of water.

* Alcohol and water doesn't mix. Never drink alcohol while swimming or boating.

For more information, contact the Nassau Red Cross at (516) 747-3500 or log on to www.nassauredcross.org.