Learn Disaster Prevention Together

As summer approaches and temperatures rise, water activities become a popular way to cool off. However, beneath the refreshing and sparkling water, there may be hidden risks of drowning.

To help families enjoy water activities safely, the Health Promotion Administration recommends three key drowning-prevention principles: “Check, Choose, and Learn.” Parents and children are encouraged to remember these principles and work together to stay safe during the summer.

1. Check — Check the Environment and Weather Conditions

Before swimming or participating in water activities, check the weather forecast and information about the water environment.

Do not enter the water during typhoons, heavy rain warnings, strong winds, thunderstorms, or other hazardous weather conditions. Avoid swimming in areas with strong currents, unknown water depths, steep drop-offs, or other environmental dangers.

2. Choose — Choose a Legal and Safe Water Area

Choose legally designated water areas where lifeguards are on duty, and follow the instructions of lifeguards and site management personnel.

Do not enter areas marked with warning signs such as:

• No Swimming
• Danger: Deep Water
• No Entry

When participating in water activities, always wear a life jacket and other required safety equipment.

3. Learn — Learn Self-Rescue and Emergency Response Skills

Stay alert and pay attention to your own physical condition and that of your companions. Fatigue, muscle cramps, or sudden illness may lead to accidents.

When someone is drowning:

• Shout loudly for help immediately.
• Call 118 for the Coast Guard or 119 for the Fire Department.
• Do not enter the water to rescue the person unless you are professionally trained.
• Use nearby rescue equipment, such as a lifebuoy, rescue rope, long pole, or other floating or extending objects.
• Assist the person from the shore whenever possible to avoid additional injuries or casualties.

Five Steps for Water Rescue

1. Shout

Shout loudly for help.

2. Call

Call 119, 118, 110, or 112 for emergency assistance.

3. Reach

Use a long pole, rope, branch, or another extended object to reach the person.

4. Throw

Throw a lifebuoy, floating device, or other buoyant object to the person.

5. Row

Use a boat, rescue board, or large floating device to approach the person.

Ten Tips for Drowning Prevention

Five Things You Should Do

1. Choose Legal Water Areas

Swim only in legally designated areas equipped with lifesaving facilities and trained personnel.

2. Be Careful

Lakes, rivers, and streams may have sudden changes in depth and underwater terrain. Exercise extra caution when swimming or playing in these areas.

3. Check the Weather

Pay attention to weather forecasts. Do not enter the water when weather conditions are poor.

4. Warm Up

Warm up before entering the water. Do not swim while wearing jeans or other heavy clothing.

5. Stay Calm

Develop swimming and floating skills. If you accidentally fall into the water, remain calm, relax, and conserve your energy.

Five Things You Should Not Do

1. Do Not Dive

Avoid dangerous behavior and do not dive into unfamiliar water.

2. Do Not Swim When Tired

Do not swim or participate in water activities when you are tired or feeling unwell.

3. Do Not Stay in the Water Too Long

Avoid remaining in the water for extended periods, as this may cause hypothermia.

4. Do Not Go Alone

Never participate in water activities alone. Always stay aware of your companions’ location and condition.

5. Do Not Engage in Rough Play

Do not push, prank, or engage in dangerous horseplay in or near the water.

Sources:

Health Promotion Administration:https://www.hpa.gov.tw/Pages/Detail.aspx?nodeid=5020&pid=20188

National Fire Agency, Ministry of the Interior:https://www.tfdp.com.tw/cht/index.php?code=list&flag=detail&ids=62&article_id=195