With hotter temperatures approaching, the Sacramento Fire Department is urging swimmers and boaters to be cautious and wear life jackets in waterways this summer.
“Our rivers are not stagnant like a swimming pool,” said Sacramento Fire Captain Justin Sylvia. “They are fast moving and can sweep you downriver within seconds. Do not turn your back on children around the water and make sure small children are wearing life jackets around our local rivers.”
Fire stations in the Sacramento region offer life jackets to the public on a loan basis. Life jackets are available for children and adults and can be borrowed for the day or weekend simply by completing a form.
Here are a few more water safety tips from the fire department:
- Always wear a life jacket.
- Never swim alone and never go in the water after drinking alcohol.
- Stay within arm’s length of inexperienced swimmers.
- Always watch children in and around water. Assign a water watcher. Don’t assume someone else is watching. Drowning is quick and silent, it can happen in seconds.
- Drain inflatable pools and coolers after each use. A toddler can drown in just one inch of water.
- Call 911 right away if someone is in trouble.
- Learn CPR.
- Wear sunscreen.
Below are fire station locations, five of which are offering free life jackets for loan and firefighters will help get those in need properly fitted with a life jacket (see little life vest icons):
