Life jackets and emergency preparedness are key to water safety

With summer swimming and water recreation activities underway, the Greater Yuma Water Safety Alliance (GYWSA) is reminding residents that drowning prevention requires multiple layers of protection working together. Those layers, identified by the National Drowning Prevention Association, include barriers and alarms, active supervision, water competency and swim lessons, life jackets, and emergency preparation.

One of the most effective layers of protection is wearing a properly fitted life jacket. Life jackets should be U.S. Coast Guard-approved, appropriate for the wearer's size, and secured before entering the water. Arizona law requires children 12 and younger to wear a life jacket while a vessel is underway, and a properly fitting life jacket must be available for each person on board.

"Life jackets are one of the simplest ways to stay safe on the water," said Francisco Leon, Public Information Officer for the Yuma Fire Department. "Whether you're boating, fishing, paddling, or just spending time at the river, lake, or ocean, wearing a properly fitted life jacket can make all the difference if an emergency occurs. Water conditions can change quickly, and a life jacket provides an extra layer of protection for everyone, regardless of age or swimming ability."

Before heading out, residents should check the life jacket's label for the appropriate weight and chest size, secure all straps and fasteners, and make sure the jacket fits snugly. Life jackets should also be inspected regularly for tears, missing straps, broken fasteners, or damaged flotation material.

Another important layer of protection is being prepared to respond during a water-related emergency. These situations can happen quickly and without warning, and immediate action can make a lifesaving difference. Families should create an emergency plan, keep a phone nearby to call 911, and make sure everyone knows the location's physical address.

Every pool should also have basic rescue equipment nearby, such as a life preserver or shepherd's crook. These tools can be used to reach or assist someone in distress without putting another person at risk by entering the water.

Preparedness also includes knowing CPR. Immediate CPR can help sustain life while emergency responders are on the way. Parents, grandparents, caregivers, babysitters, and others who regularly spend time around water are encouraged to complete CPR and water safety training.

"Preparation before an emergency gives families the knowledge and confidence to respond when seconds matter," said Lisa Brazeel, Community Liaison with Exceptional Community Hospital - Yuma. "By combining prevention, training, and a clear plan, we can help reduce the risk of preventable tragedies and create a safer community."

Through partnerships with the GYWSA, Exceptional Community Hospital and Onvida Health are offering free CPR, first aid, and water safety training to help residents build lifesaving skills. Upcoming classes include:

• Onvida Health Water Safety Workshop
Thursday, July 2
To register: [email protected]

• Exceptional Community Hospital First Aid and CPR Class
Sunday, July 12
To register: [email protected]

• Onvida Health CPR and First Aid Class
Friday, July 24
Questions: [email protected] or call (928) 336-1277

Additional classes will be offered throughout the summer.

For more information about the GYWSA, training opportunities, and other resources, visit yumaaz.gov/watersafety.