Greater Yuma Water Safety Alliance urges safe practices in open water

As temperatures rise and families look for ways to beat the heat, open water destinations like lakes, rivers, and beaches become popular places to visit. Few things bring people together quite like a day on the water. However, while these outings offer the perfect escape, they also come with hidden dangers that can quickly turn a day of fun into a life-threatening situation.

That's why the Greater Yuma Water Safety Alliance (GYWSA) is encouraging families to stay alert, stay prepared, and make safety a priority whenever they're around open water.

"Water safety is a lifelong commitment because in just seconds, calm can turn to crisis," said AJ Mosqueda, Parks and Recreation Supervisor. "Stay vigilant, plan ahead, and never let your guard down. The moments you prepare for may be the ones that save a life."

Keeping this in mind, it's important to remember that beaches, while popular and fun, also come with risks. Strong currents, sudden drop-offs, and rapidly changing weather can quickly create a dangerous situation. That's why it's important to swim only in designated areas, stay within marked zones, and choose beaches with lifeguards whenever possible. Even experienced swimmers can be caught off guard by fatigue, cold water, or unexpected shifts in weather. If something doesn't feel right, get out immediately - trusting your instincts can save your life.

It's also essential to understand how currents work. Rip currents can pull swimmers away from shore, leading to panic and exhaustion. If caught in one, stay calm and swim parallel to the shore to escape the current's pull. Along with understanding currents, it's vital to never swim alone. A "swim buddy" can assist in an emergency, and active supervision is crucial for children. While lifeguards provide an extra layer of safety, personal responsibility and watching out for one another remain equally important.

In addition to having a swim buddy, wearing a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket is key. Children, new swimmers, and even experienced swimmers should always wear one when in or around open water.

"Life jackets aren't just for inexperienced swimmers - even a strong swimmer can find themselves in dangerous situations," shared Lisa Brazeel, Marketing and Community Liaison for Exceptional Community Hospital - Yuma. "Strong currents or an unexpected fall into open water can happen in an instant. A life jacket can buy valuable time while awaiting rescue if you're unable to reach shore on your own."

To help the community feel more confident and prepared in and around water, the GYWSA offers free water safety workshops and CPR trainings. The next available workshop, hosted by Onvida Health, will take place on Tuesday, August 19. To register, email [email protected].

For more information on local water safety programs, upcoming CPR classes, and other helpful resources, visit yumaaz.gov/watersafety and follow the City of Yuma on social media.

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