Be the Change
I would like to start this week’s American Red Cross, Santa Barbara County Chapter update with a quote from Mahatma Gandhi: “You must be the change you wish to see in the world.” These are powerful words that my mother says to us over and over, “Lead by example.”

In my last article I wrote about fire safety. We must all take serious precautions during this Red Flag alert time.  It does not mean that if no one sees you throwing a cigarette out of your car window that it’s okay. Everyone must be responsible for their own actions.  The American Red Cross, Santa Barbara County Chapter is asking each and every one of us to be extra careful during this fire season. Remember, together we can save a life.

Fun in the Sun, Safely
Summer is here. It is a time when kids can go swimming and adults can take a break from hectic school schedules. It is also a time, however, when your children can get seriously injured, in and out of the water. Whether you’re the parent of a child or just a child at heart, be sure to use the following safety tips when near the water.  

1)  Learn to Swim

The National Safety Council reports that 3,000 people die each year due to drowning.  Children age four and under have the highest death rate. The American Red Cross suggests enrolling children in swimming classes by the age of three. 

2)  Be a “Lifeguard”

Most water-related injuries happen when parents take their eyes off their children. Never leave your child alone near the water, even with a lifeguard in attendance. A parent should practice reach supervision which means always being within one arm’s length of a child in case of an emergency. Children who are not strong enough to swim should use U.S. Coast Guard approved Personal Flotation Devices. Remember, these devices cannot replace parental supervision.

3)  Use the Buddy System

I think the buddy system is a good rule for almost everything. Swim with or near a friend, and be knowledgeable of the water environment.

4)  The “Dangerous Toos”

Watch your child for the “Dangerous Toos.” Too tired, too cold, too far from safety, too much sun and just too much period!

5)  Use Your Head

Common sense goes a long way when you are in the water. First of all, pay attention to all signs that are posted at or around Water Areas.  Do not drink alcohol when you are swimming, boating, or diving.  No one is clear headed when they are drinking. Check the weather report, and look for visible signs of bad weather like lightning. Get out of the water immediately when you see lightning. Don’t forget to bring your safety bag. It should contain shoes, hat, sunscreen, water, sunglasses, and a First Aid Kit.

One of the best ways that you can be prepared for any water injuries is to take a CPR class. These are offered regularly at the American Red Cross, Santa Barbara County Chapter offices in Santa Maria and Santa Barbara.

6)  Is the Water Clean?

Water in pools is for swimming, not swallowing. The Centers for Disease Control and

Prevention reports outbreaks of Recreational Water Illnesses (RWI) are on the rise, partly because of low public awareness of what these are and how they are spread. RWIs can cause anything from ear and eye infections to full blown neurological infections such as meningitis.

The Centers for Disease Control wants you to follow these guidelines:

• Don’t swim if you have diarrhea.

• Don’t swallow pool water.

• Take bathroom breaks.

• Check diapers frequently.

• Change diapers in the bathroom and not at poolside.

• Take a shower before and after swimming.

It is important that we all share these tips with care-givers and friends. We can all remind each other to take a shower before entering the pool.

Don’t let water tragedy be a part of your summer.

For more information on water safety and CPR class schedules, call the American Red Cross, Santa Barbara County Chapter at (805) 687-1331, or visit the website at www.sbredcross.org.