How can people guard against drowning?
- Never swim alone or in unsupervised places.
- Check the water depth before entering. The American Red Cross recommends 9 feet as a minimum depth for diving or jumping.
- Know the local weather conditions and forecast before swimming or boating.
- Use Coast Guard-approved personal flotation devices (life jackets) when boating, regardless of distance to be traveled, size of boat, or swimming ability of boaters.
- Never drink alcohol during or immediately before boating or other water recreation.
- To prevent choking, never chew gum or eat while swimming, diving, or playing in water.
- Learn CPR. This applies particularly to pool owners and water sports enthusiasts.
- Install telephones near residential pools.
