How do you protect your children?

Teach.

Teach your child not to go near water without an adult. Teach your child to swim. Teach your child the warning flags. Teach your child to know the water before they go in.

Watch.

Watch your child whenever they are in the water. Swim near a lifeguard. Always swim with others.

Protect.

Obey safety signs and warning flags. Learn how to rescue others without putting yourself in dangers. Know how and when to use a life jacket. Learn First Aid and CPR.

I re-certified in CPR this weekend. It didn’t take long. A couple of hours at the local fire station, which even offered the course for free. Yes, I’ve been certified almost continuously for over 30 years, and I haven’t had to use it (thank heavens), but I do know that when faced with any medical emergency I am much calmer and take the right action because of this training.

Call your local fire department, American Red Cross, Park District, or American Heart Association office and take a class.

It’s a life skill.