Be safe in the sun and on the water this summerHave fun but be safe is the message for the summer holidays By Latrobe City Council - 21st December 2001 - Back to News Have fun but be safe is the message for the summer holidays, from Latrobe City’s Community Safety Officer, Henk Harberts.
Mr Harberts said that during the warmer summer months, people are often outdoors more, going on holidays or day trips to the beach, or to parties and barbecues. "Taking a few sensible precautions can prevent injury and death," Mr Harberts said.
"Supervision of children, swimming between flags and not mixing alcohol or drugs with swimming or driving are a few of the simple but crucial messages this summer.
"Each year in Australia more than 55 young children drown, and many more suffer permanent brain damage from near-drowning incidents. 80% of these tragedies happen in backyard swimming pools and spas.
"Under Victorian law, all backyard pools and spas must have safety barriers to prevent unsupervised access by young children. This being said, accidents still occur. It is important to remove any object that a child could use to climb over the fence, for example. Another precautionary measure is to teach your child the importance of walking, not running, near the water. Surfaces at the edge of a pool can become slippery and dangerous.
"However, it is not just at pools that care should be taken. Youngsters can drown quickly in as little as five centimetres of water. Many people buy paddling pools as Christmas gifts but these can be hazardous for babies and children. Never leave children alone in any water, or expect older children to look after them. Empty wading pools and buckets after use," Mr Harberts added.
"When visiting the beach, it is imperative to swim in a supervised area, between the red and yellow flags and there are important tips to remember when swimming at inland waterways too. Many injuries occur each year when people dive into shallow waters in rivers, lakes and dams.
"However, it is not just water safety that matters during summer. Safety in the sun is just as important. Make sure you and your family are protected from the sun’s harmful rays by wearing suitable sun-screen, hats and clothing. Try to keep out of the sun during the hours of 11am and 3pm and keep children’s play areas well shaded. Provide plenty of fluids to ensure people do not dehydrate and never leave children, babies or animals unattended in a car. The temperature in a parked car during an Australian summer can be as much as 30 to 40 degrees higher than outside," Mr Harberts concluded.
Latrobe City Mayor, Cr Brendan Jenkins, reinforced the message, saying, the supervision of children is a priority especially around water. "Think ahead, take precautions and above all, enjoy yourselves, knowing that you have provided a safe and secure environment for your family and friends," Cr Jenkins said.
Source: www.gippsland.com Published by: latrobecity@gippslander.com
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