When you decide to "refresh yourself" in the summer heat - Ministry of Health reminded the rules of water safety
Kyiv • UNN
The Ministry of Health reminds us of the importance of following water safety rules to avoid accidents, such as swimming only in designated areas, avoiding alcohol and dangerous activities, using life jackets for those who do not know how to swim, and being aware of potential dangers such as currents and storms.
The Ministry of Health has given important tips on water safety to enjoy summer vacation, UNN writes.
Details
Every year, water claims hundreds of lives. Worldwide, drowning is the third leading cause of death from unintentional injuries, according to the WHO.
Most often, people die as a result of violating the rules of behavior in water. What you need to keep in mind if you decide to take a refreshing dip in a local water body in the summer heat:
- do not swim alone, always swim with someone, even if you are an experienced swimmer;
- swim only in places designated and equipped for swimming by local authorities, avoid "wild" waters;
- Do not use objects not intended for swimming (e.g. boards and car cameras);
- Do not jump into water from heights or bridges, especially where you do not know the depth and condition of the bottom;
- avoid dangerous games on the water;
- Do not swim behind buoys or attempt to climb them, and follow warning signs and signals;
- do not enter the water while intoxicated - alcohol reduces coordination and the ability to adequately assess the situation;
- if you do not know how to swim well, use a life jacket or other standardized swimming equipment;
- Avoid swimming during a storm, thunderstorm or strong winds - water can be dangerous in such conditions;
- Be aware of possible currents and waves, and learn how to act if you are caught in a current;
- If you are vacationing with children, always keep them in sight;
- Learn how to provide first aid in case of drowning.
"Following these simple rules will help you avoid danger and make your water recreation enjoyable and safe," the Ministry of Health emphasized.
Addendum
According to the State Emergency Service, this year's statistics are simply staggering: since the beginning of the year, more than 510 people have died on Ukrainian water bodies, including more than 50 children.
