Water Safety
By Taylor on July 4, 2013 in Blog
Kayaking on the Upper Iowa River
INHF would like to wish you a fun and safe Independence Day!
Today's favorable forecast is an invitation to enjoy Iowa's natural areas and get some Vitamin N! Whether you're swimming, boating, paddling or fishing, Iowa's bodies of water are prime locations to get your daily dose of nature.
If your plans include enjoying one of the state's many lakes and rivers, we hope you'll heed some important water safety instructions from the American Red Cross. Bodies of water can be fun for recreation, but it's important to remember:
- Even if you do not plan on swimming, be cautious around natural bodies of water including rivers and lakes. Cold temperatures, currents and underwater hazards can make a fall into these bodies of water dangerous.
- Whenever possible, swim in designated areas supervised by lifeguards.
- Always swim with a buddy.
- Never leave a young child unattended near water.
- Have young children or inexperience swimmers wear U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets but do not rely on life jackets alone.
- Establish rules for your family and enforce them without fail.
- If you go boating, wear a life jacket! Most boating fatalities occur from drowning.
- Avoid alcohol use. Alcohol impairs judgment, balance and coordination; affects swimming and diving skills; and reduces the body's ability to stay warm.
- Know how and when to call 9-1-1.
Visit the INHF website and Iowa DNR website to find natural areas with bodies of water near you!