Practicing Water Safety

Although it takes surprisingly little water to cause a drowning, many drownings or near-drownings occur on large bodies of water.  There are extra concerns in the summer, when lakes, rivers, and oceans are especially popular for swimming and water sports.  Unfortunately, even experienced swimmers can become fatigued or have an unexpected medical problem and face the dangers of drowning.

So what should we do?  Although there are real risks, most of us do not want to give up the recreational activities we love.  The following tips can help keep anyone safe while on the water:

• Don’t swim alone
• If you are swimming in a small group, especially in an area without a lifeguard, make sure someone knows where you are and when you intend to return
• Always pay attention to signs warning of rip tides or other dangers
• Be aware of weather forecasts before you begin swimming
• Know the area you’re swimming at so that you can get help quickly if necessary
• Wear a life vest if you will be in deep or fast water or on some type of fast-moving watercraft
• Be aware of water temperature and wear a wetsuit if necessary

Remember that boats and flotation devices can both fail.  Have a contingency plan ready in case you and the swimmers you are with get into trouble.

We can do everything possible to try to be safe on the water, but sometimes the negligence of others causes a water accident or drowning.  If someone you love was injured or drowned due to someone else’s negligence, call the Chicago personal injury lawyers of Friedman & Bonebrake, P.C., at 312-466-8200 to discuss your legal options.