Swim Safely on Cape Cod this Summer

Keep Your Family Safe at the Beach with these Swimming Safety Tips

Summer on Cape Cod attracts swimmers looking to beat the heat. 

While swimming is great exercise and fun for all ages, safety must be a priority.  Swimming injuries, drowning and deaths can be prevented by following simple safety rules. By following these rules, you can make sure that a day at the beach is safe and fun.

Read and obey signs – Be aware of water conditions and  rip tides.

Pool Safety - Walk, do not run and be careful getting in and out of the pools.  Slip and falls can cause serious injury.

Look before you leap or dive in - Diving head first can cause serious injury. Always check for rocks and depth before diving by entering slowly and feet first.

Do not go beyond your abilities - Swim only where you feel comfortable. Swim parallel to the shore, and stay inside roped-off areas.

Never swim alone – When no lifeguard is present, always use the "buddy system".

Play carefully - Wrestling and tumbling while swimming can be very dangerous.

Stay hydrated - Drink plenty of water regularly, even if you’re not thirsty. Avoid drinks with alcohol or caffeine in them.

Never leave your child alone - If a child is missing, check the water first. Seconds count in preventing death or disability.  A child can drown in just a few minutes and in a few centimeters of water. Young children need constant supervision by an adult when they are in or near the water. Beaches have so many hidden dangers, such as underwater logs, sudden drop offs, or tidal currents. Stay with your children. Obey any posted warnings about currents or dangerous areas, and ask other people if they know of any trouble spots in the area.

Never let children play in hot tubs - The hot water can quickly affect a child's small body.

Use sunscreen - Protect your skin. Limit the amount of direct sunlight you receive between 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. and wear waterproof sunscreen with a protection factor of at least 15. Check expiration dates and apply sunscreen often.

Life Jackets - Children should always wear a life jacket when they are swimming or in a boat. Check the label to make sure that your child's life jacket is government approved and that it is the right size for your child's weight.

Be prepared - Have appropriate equipment, such as reaching or throwing equipment, a cell phone, life jackets and a first aid kit. Know how and when to call 9-1-1 or the local emergency number.