Summer safety prevents drownings

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman James Hensley
  • 56th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
LUKE AIR FORCE BASE, Arizona --  The first Drowning Impact Awareness Month was in August 2003. August was chosen due to a higher number of drowning incidents occurring in that month. During DIAM, advocates endeavor to get the word out about the causes of drowning, ways to prevent it and tips to enjoy the pool safely.

"The program is designed to highlight the high number of incidents that occur in Arizona of people drowning in pools, lakes and rivers," said Staff Sgt. Jason De Jesus, 56th Fighter Wing Ground Safety. "Since January 2015 there have been 22 deaths(four children birth to age 5,; one ages 6 to12; two ages 13 to 17; and 15 18 and older). In addition to that there have been 97 water-related incidents."

With summer temperatures above 100 degrees, water activities increase and the potential for swimming-related incidents also increase.

"Because things get so hot in the Valley, many people have pools or neighbors who have them," De Jesus said. "This creates a hazard for our children who may be going into backyards looking for balls or toys that may have fallen into pools. "We also have issues with teens and adults diving into water that is too shallow. This causes lots of issues, but the most prevalent is head trauma that could cause a loss of consciousness which could result in drowning." There are ways to minimize the chances of drowning while swimming.

"Never swim alone," De Jesus said. "If something happens to you, that person with you can get help or save your life. Never swim while intoxicated. Watch your children around water because it only takes a second for tragedy to happen. Get swim lessons for your children. Pools across the Valley, as well as the base pool, offer lessons.

"Another safety precaution, which is required in the state of Arizona, is that homes with children 5 and under are required to have a pool fence, barrier and/or an alarm system installed."

There are also lifeguards at the Silver Wings Pool to help ensure safety while swimming on base.

"Lifeguards must be certified," said Michael Ketterer, 56th Force Support Squadron lead lifeguard. "It's a two-week course where you learn first aid, CPR and rescue techniques. We also learned about being alert to health conditions by observing pool areas and patrons."

Some tips lifeguards have for swimmers will seem to be common sense but need to be stated.

"Know your limits, stay hydrated and make sure to watch out for your children," Ketterer said. "Knowing how to swim and obeying the rules of the pool can make a difference."

With these precautions and safety tips, swimming can be a safe, enjoyable activity.

"While swimming has its hazards, a little preplanning can make it an enjoyable way to cool off," De Jesus said.