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Home Pool Safety Is Essential For Summer Fun
Friday, July 24, 2009 (272 reads)
Now that summer is in full swing, stories about home pool or hot tub tragedies are making headlines across the country. Tragically, over 200 young children drown in backyard pools each year and this year is on track to be no different. Millions will enjoy the summer by swimming in backyard pools and relaxing in hot tubs. The American Red Cross suggests owners make safety their priority by following these guidelines:
- Secure your pool with appropriate barriers. Completely surround your pool with a 4-feet high fence or barrier with a self-closing, self-latching gate. Place a safety cover on the pool or hot tub when not in use and remove any ladders or steps used for access. Consider installing a pool alarm that goes off if anyone enters the pool.
- Keep children under active supervision at all times. Stay in arm’s reach of young children. Designate a responsible person to watch the water when people are in the pool—never allow anyone to swim alone. Have young or inexperienced swimmers wear a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket.
- Ensure everyone in the home knows how to swim well by enrolling them in age-appropriate water orientation and learn-to-swim courses.
- Keep your pool or hot tub water clean and clear. Maintain proper chemical levels, circulation and filtration. Regularly test and adjust the chemical levels to minimize the risk of earaches, rashes or more serious diseases.
- Establish and enforce rules and safe behaviors, such as “no diving,” “stay away from drain covers,” “swim with a buddy” and “walk please.”
- Ensure everyone in the home knows how to respond to aquatic emergencies by having appropriate safety equipment and taking water safety, first aid and CPR courses from the Red Cross.
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FREE CAR WASH Saturday, July 25th
Wednesday, July 22, 2009 (2 reads)
Saturday, July 25th from 9am - 3pm the Red Cross Youth Corps will host a FREE Car Wash at the Arcadia Chapter office at 376 West Huntington Drive. Donations are accepted and will support youth projects such as Leadership Camp and making treats for our Meals on Wheels program. In addition to the car wash there will a BAKE SALE so you can enjoy homemade treats and cold drinks while you wait. So be sure to stop by on Saturday, July 25th for your free car wash!
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Stay Cool as Temperatures Rise!
Tuesday, July 14, 2009 (2 reads)
As summer temperatures reach the 100 degree mark, the Red Cross reminds everyone how important it is to stay cool. Everyone is at risk when temperatures rise above 90 degrees but the elderly and the very young are most susceptible to heat and heat-related illnesses. Follwoing these simple tips can help you stay cool as you enjoy your summer activities.
- Dress for the heat. Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing. Light colors will reflect away some of the sun's energy. Wear hats or use an umbrella.
- Drink water. Carry water or juice with you and drink continuously even if you do not feel thirsty. Avoid alcohol and caffeine, which dehydrate the body. Avoid using salt tablets unless directed to do so by a physician.
- Eat small meals and eat more often.
- Slow down. Avoid strenuous activity. If you must do strenuous activity, do it during the coolest part of the day, early in the morning or in the evening.
- Stay indoors when possible. If air conditioning is not available, stay on the lowest floor out of the sunshine. Remember that electric fans do not cool, they simply circulate the air. Visit your local library, mall, or movie theater to take advantage of their air conditioning.
- Be a good neighbor. During heat waves, check in on elderly residents in your neighborhood and those who do not have air conditioning.
- Learn Red Cross first aid and CPR. While the above tips can help prevent emergencies, it is important to know what to do if a situation arises. Check our course schedule for a list of times and dates for CPR and First Aid training.
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