SANTA CRUZ DE TENERIFE, 5th Jul. (EUROPA PRESS) –
‘Canarias, 1500 Km de Costa’, the Association for the Prevention of Water Accidents, has once again highlighted the ’14 essential tips for a safe summer in the water’. These key preventive measures aim to help individuals avoid risky situations and know how to act in case of emergencies in various aquatic settings.
Under the leadership of drowning prevention expert Sebastian Quintana, the association is sponsored by the Cabildo de Gran Canaria, in collaboration with the Government of the Canary Islands, the City of the Sea, the Tourism departments of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, the Elder Science Museum, and Binter.
Disregarding warning flags, swimming at unguarded beaches, using inflatable floats in the sea, and getting caught in rip currents are among the main risk factors that can jeopardise safety when engaging in water activities. Such careless behaviour can lead to drowning or other accidents, both at beaches and in pools or rivers.
Spain has already recorded over 200 drowning deaths in coastal areas and aquatic facilities this year, with more than a dozen involving minors (ahogamientos.blogspot.com). Hence, issuing preventative advice and emergency protocols for accidents in these environments is more critical than ever.
To prevent water accidents, it is essential to use common sense and adhere to safety recommendations. In emergency situations, always dial 112 without hesitation.
Swimming in prohibited areas marked by a red flag is the primary cause of drowning deaths. Failure to respect warning flags accounts for 80% of sea accidents. The red flag serves as a clear prohibition, similar to a red traffic light. Despite the risk involved, a large portion of the population admits to disregarding these warnings and swimming anyway.
Another critical risk factor is swimming at unsupervised beaches or outside designated hours of lifeguard service. Desolate beaches lack professional supervision and adequate signage, increasing the danger for swimmers in distress. This scenario represents the third leading cause of drowning deaths.
The presence of rip currents poses another significant hazard, pulling swimmers out to sea and preventing them from returning ashore. This is the second leading cause of drowning. If caught in a rip current, it is crucial not to fight against it. Conserve energy, remain calm, and signal for help by waving your arms.
In cases of missing children, particularly those aged between 2 and 6, immediate attention should be directed to water bodies. Unsecured private pools or park fountains present clear threats to young children who may accidentally fall in without knowing how to swim. A small amount of water and a minute of exposure are enough for a child to drown. Constant supervision is crucial.
When fishing near cliffs or rocky coastal areas, always check weather conditions, sea status, and ensure you have the necessary safety gear before heading out. Wear a helmet, suitable footwear, and, most importantly, a life jacket.
Children are especially vulnerable in water environments. It takes just 27 seconds for a one-year-old to drown. Inflatable floats should never be used in the sea, as they are not safety devices but mere toys. Animal-shaped floats like swans, unicorns, or flamingos are particularly hazardous, as their design can drag swimmers out to sea. Arm bands and ring floats also pose safety risks. Always enter the water with children.
ADDITIONAL RECOMMENDATIONS
Taking selfies near cliffs or rugged coastlines is a growing trend that increases the risk of accidents. Furthermore, attempting this in strong waves for a more dramatic shot raises the chances of severe accidents due to the rush to capture the perfect image.
‘Canarias, 1500 Km de Costa’ emphasises preventive measures for adults, noting that the typical drowning victim is a male aged between 55 and 75. Therefore, it is essential to be mindful of one’s physical condition and limitations, as a heart attack can lead to drowning in under a minute.
When engaging in water sports, respect safety zones and keep a safe distance from other swimmers. If participating in motorised water activities, ensure you are at least 200 meters away from the beach or 50 meters from rocky areas. It is worth noting that the majority of jet ski operators in Spain lack proper licenses and experience. Before going out to sea, inform someone on land about your planned activity.
Accessing the sea for a refreshing swim can pose challenges for individuals with mobility impairments. People in wheelchairs, those with visual impairments, or other disabilities should seek out beaches offering facilities for easy access to the sea. Everyone has the right to enjoy a safe swimming experience.
When diving, always have a companion and inspect your equipment before entering the water. Dive with at least one other person and ideally under the supervision of a qualified professional. Understand your physical capabilities and any limitations before diving, as it is a high-risk activity.
After a heavy meal or prolonged sun exposure, enter the water gradually. Avoid extended sun exposure and use sunscreen with high UV protection. Limit exposure to direct sunlight to less than half an hour at a time.
When visiting dams, rivers, reservoirs, or mountain ponds, ensure that swimming is allowed. Freshwater is less buoyant than seawater, so using life jackets or flotation aids is advisable for safety.
At swimming pools, be cautious of drains without covers or grates, which pose a significant risk, especially to children. The suction force of an uncovered drain is strong enough to cause severe injuries or fatalities. Ensure parents or guardians accompany children in the water at all times.
