HANSCOM AIR FORCE BASE, Mass. -- The Air Force Safety Center designates the period between Memorial Day and Labor Day as the 101 Critical Days of Summer.
During summer months, many enjoy spending time in, on and under the water, but safety should always remain a priority.
“It’s incredible how fast someone can drown,” said Lt. Eric Naylor, Hanscom AFB firefighter. “It’s important to stay vigilant at every event that involves water.”
Airmen, Guardians and their families should never swim, boat or scuba dive alone and should remember that water activities and alcohol don’t mix.
While these recommendations may seem obvious, the AFSC reported that eight DAF personnel nationwide lost their lives in water-related off-duty incidents last year.
Here are additional tips to help stay safe around water:
- Always wear a life jacket while in a boat, canoe or kayak.
- When swimming at a pool or beach, make sure a lifeguard is present.
- Know your limits and stay within them.
- Enter the water feet first. Only dive if you know the water is deep enough and free of submerged obstacles.
- Stay out of the water during thunderstorms, lightning or other severe weather.
Small children should remain within arm’s reach of an adult and wear a flotation device, especially at the beach, said Christina Turmel, 66th Force Support Squadron recreation specialist supervisor.
“You want to be right there to keep them from being knocked down and pulled out by the waves,” said Turmel. “The tide will take you away.”
When swimming in a pool, Naylor recommends designating someone to act as a lifeguard and ensuring they have access to a long pole or a flotation device with a rope attached.
“A panicking swimmer can pull others underwater,” said Naylor.
Being able to pull someone to the side of the pool with a pole or floatation device can help keep everyone safe.