Who else is ready for some fun in the sun this summer? Every year around this time we start itching to get outside in that glorious California sunshine and into some water! Whether you’re headed to the beach or the pool, it’s important to know some basic swimming and summer safety. Since we care about more than just our patient’s teeth, we thought we’d go over a few pointers for a quick refresher.
Swim Safely
As much fun as a dip in the pool or ocean can be, it’s so important to understand how to enjoy the water safely. According to the National Safety Council, about 10 people die from drowning every day in the United States. Unfortunately, children have the highest risk of drowning. While those statistics are shocking, it’s not a reason to abandon your swimsuits. Here are some basic tips to help keep your family safe:
• If someone doesn’t know how to swim, don’t let them go into the water without a proper, well-fitting lifejacket. According to Kidshealth.org, drownings can occur in as little as 2 inches of water.
• Don’t swim alone. (Swimming is more fun with friends, anyway!)
• Take a CPR class and learn rescue techniques. Find Red Cross classes close to you here.
• Understand the unique threats that different bodies of water pose. Swimming in a pool is much different than managing the waves and undertow of the ocean.
• If you do get caught in a current stay calm and don’t try to fight it. Float with the current and try to swim parallel to the shore until you can break free from the current.
• Always choose a spot at the beach or a public pool that is supervised by a lifeguard.
• Don’t push, jump or roughhouse with others in the water.
• Don’t dive in unfamiliar areas that could be shallow or pose unknown risks.
• Always enter the water feet first.
And for parents, here are a few more things to consider.
• Never ever leave your child alone in or near water.
• Find age-appropriate swim lessons.
• Keep a first aid kit and emergency contacts handy.
• If your child is missing, always check the water first.
Orthodontic Summer Safety
We have had many patients lose their retainers in the surf, so if you are in retainers, please leave those safely in your case while enjoying our awesome San Diego surf! Also, while most summer activities don’t pose a huge orthodontic risk, it’s always important to be prepared. If an orthodontic emergency does occur, be sure to contact us immediately. That means, if you’re in an intense amount of mouth pain or if your appliance or braces are broken and can’t be temporarily fixed, give us a call!
Fun in the Sun
Now that you’ve gone over a few water safety tips, don’t forget to also stay hydrated and wear sunscreen. Happy summer everyone. We hope it’s the best (and safest) one yet!