ORLANDO, Fla. – Summer’s here, school’s out and the heat is on, which means a lot more time to spend in the water.
Florida Lt. Gov. Jeanette Nuñez, Department of Children and Families Secretary Shevaun Harries, Florida Surgeon General Joseph Ladapo, and Agency for Persons with Disabilities Director Taylor Hatch emphasized the importance of water safety on Wednesday during a news conference.
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“As Floridians and their families go outdoors to enjoy all that the Sunshine State has to offer, we want to make sure they do it in a way that is safe and enjoyable,” Nuñez said.
During the news conference, the following steps were highlighted to help prevent drownings and keep everyone safe in the water:
- Always supervise children in and around water.
- Consider participating in swim lessons.
- Learn CPR and first aid.
- Ensure that pool barriers and gates meet state law requirements.
- Follow life jacket laws and make sure life jackets are properly fitted.
- Check local conditions, such as weather, rip tides, and marine life before heading out to the water.
“Drowning can be silent and happen in the amount of time it takes to check a text on your phone,” State Surgeon General Dr. Joseph Ladapo said. “By designating a Water Watcher and using barriers such as a fence, you can protect your children while safely enjoying activities at the pool and beach this summer.”
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