GENERAL WATER SAFETY Leader's Note: Because the range of topics in this presentation is broad, it is helpful to know some general information about the expected audience. For example, is this a group of parents of young children, a homeowner's association meeting, a civic organization made up of adults or a summer camp of teenagers on their way to a waterpark? This knowledge can help you customize your presentation to meet the audience's needs. In preparation, discuss with the individual who requested the presentation: Who will be attending The reasons for offering it Prepare with this information in mind. As an example, if your audience is a group of parents with young children, include the additional tips "Watching Children Around Water." Consider following the approach of asking for their input, which requires audience members to draw on their knowledge, followed by a brief discussion to ensure their understanding and ability to apply the information. Presentation Length Approximately 30 minutes Suggested Materials, Equipment and Supplies American Red Cross identification Newsprint and markers, chalkboard and chalk or dry erase board and markers American Red Cross Water Safety Handbook (one for each participant) (Stock No. 651306) Participant Handouts: Brochure(s) for local American Red Cross course offerings Learn-to-Swim Swimming and Water Safety Brochure (Stock No. 654149) Aquatics Progam Catalog (Stock No. 651235) Together WE Prepare Together WE Prepare, 5 Actions for Emergency Preparedness (Stock No. A1800) Together WE Prepare, 5 Actions for Emergency Preparedness (Stock No. A1802)-Spanish Volunteer with the American Red Cross (Stock No. A1804) First Aid/CPR/AED Community First Aid and Safety Brochure (Stock No. 652107) Workplace Brochure (Stock No. 656687) Infant & Child CPR Brochure (Stock No. 656663) 1
See Aquatics Leader Activity Report See Leader Evaluation Form American Red Cross "Has Attended" certificates (Stock No. C3001) See Leader Agreement and Code of Conduct Leader's Note: It is suggested that all materials be kept in an easy-to-store plastic storage bin or tub. Purpose of Presentation To provide individuals with an awareness of the importance of water safety training and to provide general information on being safe in, on and around water. Presentation OutlineKey Terms and Definitions Term Buddy Depth Emergency Rules Definition A person who helps another person follow the rule and can summon help in an emergency. Measurement downward in the water. A sudden, urgent, usually unforeseen occurrence or occasion requiring immediate action. Guidelines for conduct or action that help keep one safe at pools and swimming areas. Presentation Outline Topic Introduction Importance of Swimming and Water Safety Training Additional Water Safety Tips Wrap-Up Approximate Time for Total Presentation Length 2 minutes 15 minutes 10 minutes 3 minutes 30 minutes 2
TOPIC: INTRODUCTION (TIME: 2 MINUTES) "Welcome!" Introduce yourself to the class. "Thank you for allowing me to speak to you about this lifesaving information." "Please introduce yourself and explain why you are attending this presentation." "Today we are going to discuss general water safety information that will help you and your family to be safer in, on and around water." "I am now going to pass out a brochure(s) that lists courses offered by the local Red Cross." Leader's Note: Point out the contact information for the local Red Cross in the brochure(s). If the contact information is not in the brochure(s), provide the information by writing it on newsprint for all to see. TOPIC: IMPORTANCE OF SWIMMING AND WATER SAFETY TRAINING (TIME: 15 MINUTES) "The best thing that anyone can do to enjoy the numerous water activities available in our area is to participate in swimming and water safety training, such as swimming lessons and safety courses that help prepare you to handle an aquatic emergency." "Swimming and water safety training helps make you comfortable, confident and safe around the water and maximizes your enjoyment and safe participation in water sports." "Participating in water safety training can be fun and gives you a chance to meet new people like you who are also interested in water activities. Also, swimming is good exercise and can contribute to lifelong activity." "Contact your local Red Cross for information on swimming and water safety courses. You Red Cross chapter will provide you a with list of aquatic facilities that offer Red Cross swimming and water safety courses in your neighborhood." Ask and "The best thing anyone can do to stay safe in and around the water is to learn to swim. The American Red Cross has swimming courses for people of any age and swimming ability." "There are many tips for water safety that you may already know. It is important to think of these tips and apply them whenever you and your family are in, on or around water." "In addition to learning to swim, what are other water safety tips you should follow?" 3
Leader's Note: Write participants' responses on newsprint. It may be necessary to guide participants to the answers. Be sure that each of the following answers are addressed. Conduct a short discussion on each of the answers to ensure that participants can under stand and apply the water safety tips. Always swim with a buddy; never swim alone. Read and obey all rules and posted signs. Swim in areas that are supervised by a lifeguard. Children or inexperienced swimmers should take extra precautions, such as wearing U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets when around water. Watch out for the "dangerous too's" too tired, too cold, too far from safety, too much sun, too much strenuous activity. Set water safety rules for your family based on swimming abilities (for example, inexperienced swimmers should stay in water less than chest deep). Be knowledgeable of the water environment you are in and its potential hazards, such as deep and shallow areas, currents, depth changes, obstructions and where the entry and exit points are located. The more informed you are, the more aware you will be of hazards and safe practices. Know how to prevent, recognize and respond to emergencies. Use a feet first entry when entering the water. Enter head first only when the area is clearly marked for diving and has no obstructions. Do not mix alcohol with swimming, diving or boating. Alcohol impairs judgment, balance and coordination, affects your swimming and diving skills and reduces your body's ability to stay warm. Leader's Note: If the audience is primarily parents, you may discuss the additional tips for watching children around water at this point. TOPIC: WATER ACTIVITIES AND SAFETY (TIME: 10 MINUTES) Ask Participants: "What specific aquatic activities or environments do you enjoy participating in or plan on pursuing or visiting in the near future?" Leader's Note: Write participants' responses on newsprint. "You will find specific safety tips for many of these topics in the American Red Cross Water Safety Handbook". 4
Leader's Note: Distribute the American Red Cross Water Safety Handbook to each participant. Review and discuss specific sections of the handbook in more detail based on the responses participants have given. Stress to participants that this information can help them prepare for a variety of aquatic activities or environments. Topics may include: Home Pools Spas and Hot Tubs Pool Parties Waterparks Lakes and Rivers Oceans Diving Boating TOPIC: WRAP-UP (TIME: 3 MINUTES) "Today we learned the general water safety tips to help keep you and your family safe in, on and around water. "Does anyone have any other questions about any of the topics we covered today?" "Remember to contact your local Red Cross for further information on enrolling in Preparedness courses." Leader's Notes: Briefly answer any questions and thank participants for their time and participation. Optional: Issue American Red Cross "Has Attended" certificates indicating General Water Safety. Complete the Aquatics Leader Activity Report, the Leader Evaluation Form, and any other required paperwork and submit to your local Red Cross chapter. 5