Are you ready to have a great fun-filled summer? Every year around this time we start itching to get outside in that beautiful California sunshine and spend time in or next to the water! Whether you’re going to the beach or the pool, it’s very important to know all the basic swimming and summer safety rules. Since we know our patients spend so much time near the water, we thought we’d quickly explain our advice in case you need a refresher.
Swim Safely
We know how much fun a dip in the pool or ocean can be, but it’s very crucial to understand how to enjoy the water in a safe way. According to the National Safety Council, about 10 people die from drowning every day in the United States. With that said, children unfortunately have the highest risk of drowning. While those statistics might cause some worry, it’s not a reason to completely break up with your swimsuits. Here are some basic tips to help keep your family safe and happy:
- If a child doesn’t know how to swim, don’t allow them go into the water without a proper, well-fitting lifejacket. According to Kidshealth.org, drownings can occur in as little as 2 inches of water.
- Never swim alone. (Swimming is the most fun with friends, anyway!)
- It’s always a good idea to take a CPR class and learn all of the rescue techniques. Find Red Cross classes close to you here.
- Remember that there are different threats depending on the type of water you are in. Swimming in a pool is much different than managing the aggressive waves of the ocean.
- If you do get caught in a current, try to stay calm and resist the urge to start fighting it. Instead, float with the current and try to swim parallel to the shore until you can get out from under from the current.
- Remember to carefully choose a spot at the beach or a public pool that is supervised by a lifeguard.
- It’s very important to make sure you are not roughhousing (pushing, throwing, fighting) in the water.
- Make sure to avoid diving in unfamiliar areas that could be shallow.
- Always enter the water feet first.
And for our parents, here are a few more things to consider:
- Never leave your child alone in or near water.
- Make sure to find age-appropriate swim lessons.
- Keep a first aid kit and emergency contacts handy.
- If your child is missing, always check the water first.
Orthodontic Summer Safety
We often have patients lose their retainers while in the ocean, so if you have retainers, remember to take those out and leave them in your case. You can still enjoy that awesome San Diego Ocean while not worrying about losing your retainers while doing so. Also, while summer fun usually doesn’t include any orthodontics risks, it is important to be prepared in case of an emergency. If an orthodontic emergency does occur, be sure to call us at 760-434-SMILE (7645) immediately. Orthodontic emergencies include intense amounts of pain in your mouth or if your applicate or braces have been broken. Don’t hesitate to give us a call!
Fun in the Sun
Now that you’re refreshed on our water safety tips, go enjoy your summer! Don’t forget to wear sunscreen and stay hydrated! We hope you have the best (and safest) summer yet!