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Boundary Creek Times editorial - July 25 Be cool - be safe

Water safety awareness is a must before undertaking any trip out for a day on the water.

Hot weather always makes the lake or the river look really attractive. It’s a great way to cool down and enjoy a summer day with friends and family.

Whether water skiing, tubing or just taking a dip at the local public beach – getting on or in the water when the temperature goes up makes a lot of sense.

But it also makes sense to be aware of the risks that water can have for us. Doing what you can to mitigate those risks is important to making sure your day of relaxation doesn’t turn to tragedy.

If you don’t know how to swim then get to a pool and learn both how to swim and water safety skills.

According to the Canadian Red Cross young children ages 1 to 4 and men ages 15 to 44 are at the greatest risk of drowning; and drowning is one of the leading causes of death for Canadian children ages one to four.

Keep small children in sight at all times. All non-swimmers should wear a lifejacket.

Avoid diving headfirst into water at the beach unless you are properly trained and have made sure that the water is deep enough.

Avoid diving in home pools and always enter the water feet-first.

Adults should restrict their alcohol consumption to times away from the water.

It is both illegal and risky to drink on the water.

The Canadian Safe Boating Council says that alcohol was a factor in nearly 40 per cent of boating related deaths.

Enjoying the outdoors beside a lake or river is a great way to beat the heat. Just do it wisely – be careful and be safe on the water.