S A F E K I D S K O O T E N A I C O U N T Y P R O V I D E S G R E AT T I P S
F O R K E E P I N G Y O U R K I D S S A F E T H I S S U MM E R
Water Wise
Water is
everywhere in the Inland Northwest. Lakes and
rivers are some of the area’s most popular destinations
and best features. Many residents take to boating,
swimming and other water activities as soon as the
sun comes out. Even though the water provides a great
place to cool off during summer months, it can also be
dangerous without proper safety measures.
“Drowning is the second leading cause of injury-
related death for children ages 1 to 14,” Donna
Kalanick, Kootenai Health injury prevention coordina-
tor, said. “Prevention starts with educating parents
and children about water safety and awareness.”
Here are some of Donna’s top safety tips from Safe
Kids Kootenai County:
◗
Children should always wear a life jacket approved
by the U.S. Coast Guard. Make sure the life jacket
fits snugly. Safe Kids suggests having the child
make a “touchdown” signal by raising both arms
straight up. If the life jacket hits the child’s chin or
ears, it may be too big or the straps may be too
loose.
◗
A large portion of boating accidents involve alcohol
consumption by both boat operators and passengers.
To keep you and your loved ones safe, avoid alcoholic
beverages while boating.
◗
Infants and young kids are at a higher risk for
hypothermia. If you are taking a baby on a boat, take
a few extra precautions to keep your baby warm. If
your children seem cold or are shivering, wrap them
tightly in a dry blanket or towel.
◗
Learning CPR will give you tremendous peace of
mind—and the more peace of mind you have as a
parent, the better. Local organizations such as the
S A F E F U N I S M O R E F U N
For more great tips about summer safety or
more information about Safe Kids Kootenai
County, visit
safekidskootenaicounty.org
or call Donna
Kalanick at
(208) 620-5843
.
By Andrea Nagel
6
SAFETY
