Despite the recent dreary and unfamiliar weather, summer is here. Once July starts to roll into August the heat will really intensify, and we’ll jump into whatever lake, pond or pool we can find to combat the strength of the sun. As you well know, water is a great source of recreation and relaxation, but it’s paramount to keep safety in mind at all times when around water, especially for children.

According to the US Army Corps of Engineers(USACE), the four major causes of drowning are as follows:

• Absence of a life jacket
• Abuse of alcohol
• Lack of sufficient swimming skills
• Hypothermia

Hypothermia is brought on by a severe drop in core body temperature. The process can be accelerated by alcohol. Provided you don’t remain in cold water for a prolonged period of time, hypothermia can be easily avoided. The other three factors are more relevant to this particular region.

It’s very important that you don’t overestimate your swimming skills. If you or a family member would like to find a class to strengthen your swimming ability, place an inquiry with The Centre or the YMCA of Elgin.

To see the full USACE page on water safety, click here.

Children are particularly vulnerable around water, be it at a lake or a pool. To read the American Academy of Pediatrics’ pool safety for children tips, click here. And if you or any family member should ever experience an injury while swimming, turn to Sherman’s Immediate Care Centers, which are located throughout the Fox Valley communities and can treat minor injuries.