Water Safety—an important part of summer that often gets overlooked! To be an aware and updated Galtimer, take a look at the following checklist for water activity safety.
Boating
According to Boating America Safety, Federal Law requires the following items on your boat on all U.S. Waters.
- Life Jackets – One for each person
- Fire Extinguishers
- Ventilation
- Whistle, Blow or Horn
- Backfire Flame Arrester
- Visual Distress Signal
- For a detailed explanation of this list, see Boating America Safety.
Swimming
According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention the following steps are very important for anyone who likes to swim in open water.
- Take formal swimming lessons
- Have a designated supervisor who is not distracted
- Learn CPR
- Use Lifeguards and Buddy Systems
- Know the different warning flags and signs
- Be aware of the terrain
- Avoid choppy waters
- Use Life Jackets
- Avoid Alcohol
- Learn boating safety
- Be aware of weather changes
- For a detailed explanation of this list, see CDC Drowning Risks.
Beachside
Aloha.Com has the skinny on sun bathing safely. To see their detailed list of the following click the link above.
- Avoid midday sun → 10 am to 4 pm are when the rays are the strongest
- Always use sunscreen at least 20 minutes before sun exposure and reapply every two hours.
- Cover up with hats and shades
- Always use shade when taking infants to the beach. 6 months and under should stay out of direct sunlight.
Lakes & Rivers Near You
- Albemarle Sound
- Baddin Lake
- Blewett Falls
- Complete List of North Carolina Lakes & Rivers
