Mahaska Health Partnership Suggests Safe Swimming Practices
The Edmundson Park Swimming Pool features 3 slides for wet summer fun. (file photo)
MAHASKA COUNTY – Summer is in full swing, and that means kids and adults alike will be enjoying a variety of outdoor activities, many that include water. Mahaska Health Partnership wants to encourage you and your family to stay safe in the water this summer by following a few swimming tips.
Protecting your skin from sunburn is a concern for anyone spending time outdoors. “It is important to use sunscreen, even in the colder months,” MHP Family Nurse Practitioner Eva Sietsema said. “Make sure to purchase waterproof sunblock that has an SPF factor of at least 15, and reapply according to the bottle. Wearing a hat and sunglasses can protect your delicate skin from the sun’s rays, as well as limiting your exposure to direct sunlight between the hours of 10 am and 4 pm.”
When it comes to swimming, you should consider where you are and the potential risks associated with that location. “If you are swimming in a lake, river or pond, check the depth prior to entering,” Sietsema suggested. “It is hard to see the bottom in most places, so never dive into these waters.
“Another hazard when swimming is the risk of infection or illness. Even if you are swimming in a pool, you can catch illnesses from ingesting the water. Avoid swallowing the water as much as possible. If you have deep cuts or wounds, avoid swimming in frequented bodies of water such as hot tubs and swimming pools to avoid infection.
Sietsema also recommended having Coast Guard approved life jackets and other flotation devices readily available, especially for children. “It is required by law that every boat has at least one life jacket per passenger. Even if you are a good swimmer, the boat could flip over, trapping you underneath. It is best to make sure children wear a life jacket at all times in case of an accident.”
Practicing safe habits while swimming is important for everyone, not just children. “Adults should always supervise younger swimmers, especially if a lifeguard is not on duty,” Sietsema cautioned. “It is always best to swim with a buddy, and have a phone close by in case of an emergency. It only takes a few minutes for even the most experienced swimmers to be in serious danger of drowning, so taking the proper precautions is vital to staying safe in the water.”
Mahaska Health Partnership, located in Oskaloosa, is a non-profit health system accredited by the Joint Commission. It is guided by its mission to provide exceptional customer service and health improvement, linking the science of medicine with the humanity of compassionate care. For more information about how Mahaska Health Partnership is making healthcare personal, look us up on the web: mahaskahealth.org.
