Summer Water Safety Tips at the New Jersey Shore

By Aimee Amodio

At the Jersey shore, you're pretty much surrounded by water: the Atlantic Ocean, the bays and inlets, and more. Knowing how to swim is the best thing you and your family can do to stay safe near the water. If you don't know how to swim, now is the perfect time to learn. Your local Red Cross chapter is a great place to find out about swimming lessons.

A few important swimming safety tips:

• Always swim with a buddy.
• Stick to beach areas that are supervised by a lifeguard.
• Choose beach areas that are clean and well-maintained. This will prevent you from encountering other health issues -- like garbage, dirty restrooms, and more.
• Don't swim in bad weather -- especially thunderstorms.
• Children and adults who can't swim should use flotation aids when near the water -- and be supervised. A flotation device is no substitute for supervision! A malfunctioning flotation device could create an emergency situation.
• Inexperienced swimmers should stay in water that is only waist or chest-deep.
• Don't over-exert yourself by swimming too far from shore, swimming when you're tired, or staying in the water when you're too cold.

But water safety is for more than just swimming.

Never mix alcohol and swimming, diving, or boating. Alcohol can impair your balance and coordination. It also can reduce your body's ability to stay warm -- cold water will affect you more if you've been drinking.

Other water safety tips:

• Beware of murky water -- it can hide underwater objects and drop-offs!
• Make sure rafts and other water toys are in good condition.
• Make sure docks are in good condition -- watch for loose boards and exposed nails.
• Always wear a life vest when using a jet ski, sailboard, boat, or any water craft!
• Research local laws and regulations that deal with the operation of personal watercraft. This includes licensing requirements, safety equipment, operator ages, and more.
• Take lessons before starting a new water sport. Practice in shallow or calm water before taking your new hobby out into rougher, deeper waters.
• Make sure instructors and tour guides are trained and certified. Do your research!
• Follow posted rules at beaches, lakes, and water parks.

One last tip: check out your local Red Cross chapter for classes on emergency prevention, lifesaving skills, and more. Knowing how to prevent and respond to emergencies can help keep you, your family, and your friends safe all summer long -- in the water and out!