Stay safe this month!

Posted: May 10, 2018

Happy National Water Safety Month

For Western Washington locals this is an exciting time for outdoor water activities – like boating, kayaking, swimming in your pool or beach, rafting, exploring the tide pools, & much more. We are fortunate that we can enjoy such natural beauty so close to home here in the Great NW. We have the ease & accessibility to some of the clearest & pristine bodies of water, thanks to all that rain we get-but it’s worth it! Being surrounded by sounds, lakes, rivers, and oceans can bring a bounty of opportunities to get outdoors! May is also the start of National Water Safety Month. This national campaign started in recognition of the popularity of swimming and other water-related recreational activities in the United States, and the resulting need for ongoing public education on safer water practices, the month of May 2018 is National Water Safety Month!

Whether you are relaxing in your pool or boating in the beautiful Puget Sound, always remember to practice safe water habits. Take these precautions to keep you & your family safe this summer-

  • Check the weather: Remember the water temperature is much cooler than the outside temperature. This is also a critical step in planning a day out on the water since the weather is incredibly unpredictable here, do some research of the area before you go.
  • Bring Enough Life Jackets for the Whole Family:For obvious reasons, they float-you don’t. In a panic, anything can happen. Always be prepared.
  • Stay Hydrated: Sometimes people forget that just because they are surrounded by water they don’t need to drink water. However; staying hydrated is essential for avoiding burn-out & dehydration while you’re out in the sun.
  • Stay Engaged & Keep a Close Eye on Kids & Weaker Swimmers: ALWAYS keep your eyes on the water, and what is on the horizon. Actively watch kids & weak swimmers and keep them in your sight line to ensure they are safe.
  • Avoid Distractions:Take your selfies on the boat or on land, not in the water.
  • Rely on a Professional: If anyone in your party aren’t strong swimmers, leave it to the professionals. Look for “lifeguard on duty” signs and let highly-trained, CPR certified lifeguards keep you safe.
  • Bring Warm Clothes-As we mentioned the weather can change in an instant here, and it’s important to keep your body warm after being in the water all day.

Although Water Safety may seem overwhelming, with a little preparation & research you can plan the best, memorable summer ever. How do you kick-off the season?

Enjoy the long summer nights in your pool? Is your pool ready for the summer, find out how to remove your winter cover here.

Take a boat out on the Puget Sound? Opening Day for boating season,  also known as “Ocean Crossings” is May 5th!

Explore the lake via kayak?

Take a float down the river with friends?

However you enjoy the season, remember these water safety tips to help avoid any potential hazards out in the water. Make this summer the most memorable one yet!