The Florida Department of Health in Orange County (DOH-Orange) promotes National Water Safety Month to educate the community on how to safely enjoy Florida’s many bodies of water and prevent drowning.
Florida offers countless opportunities to enjoy water recreation in pools, lakes, and other surrounding bodies of water. That is why water safety is critical. Children ages 1-4 years old are more likely to drown in a home swimming pool than those ages 5-19 years old, who are more likely to drown in natural bodies of water. Whether you are a parent or a community group member, everyone plays a role in drowning prevention. The goal is to keep water activities fun and safe for all as we move into the summer months.
Tips on Water Safety:
Beach and Lake Swimming:
Swimming in open water is different than swimming in a pool. Even the strongest swimmer can get into trouble swimming in open water. Here are some tips for swimming at the beach or lake:
Swim It: Always swim with a buddy, and when safety flags and signs give it the all-clear to do so.
Shore It: If you have a weakened immune system, a cut on your skin, or don’t have a buddy to swim with, stay on dry land.
Dodge It: If you encounter animals that live near or in the water, stay away. Also, algal blooms like red tide and blue-green algae cause skin irritation, burning eyes and throat, and breathing irritations. For current information on red tide or blue-green algae, please visit ProtectingFloridaTogether.gov/.
For more information, contact DOH-Orange at 407-723-5004.
About the Florida Department of Health
The Department, nationally accredited by the Public Health Accreditation Board, works to protect, promote, and improve the health of all people in Florida through integrated state, county, and community efforts.
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