MOUNT VERNON — The hot and humid days of summer often mean water recreation for many. Whether it is swimming in a pool, lake or river, or maybe a day of boating, canoeing or kayaking, the variety of popular water activities local residents choose to enjoy can be fun but also dangerous if some necessary safety precautions are not followed.
According to www.kidshealth.org, for people between the ages of 5 and 24, drowning is the second leading cause of accidental death in the United States. Most water-related accidents can be avoided by knowing how to stay safe and following a few simple guidelines. Many people believe they can steer clear of accidents by just using some common sense. But a few safety tips can serve as helpful reminders and can possibly mean the difference in saving a life.
Linette Porter-Metler, health and safety director with the American Red Cross of Knox County, stated that the Red Cross office has a water safety handbook available with many informative tips on water safety. The Red Cross works very closely on water safety programs with the Hiawatha Water Park/Pool. Copies of the handbook and additional literature are also available at the pool.
