Prepare for your checkup Questions and goals to discuss with your provider: See page 7. Standard U.S. Postage PAID Walla Walla, WA Permit No. 44 Here in Alaska, there’s a good chance many of us will be having a great time on the water at some point. When you do, please remember these simple safety tips for the entire family. Wear a life jacket ● Always have your children wear a life jacket approved by the U.S. Coast Guard while on boats, around open bodies of water or when participating in water sports. ● Make sure the life jacket fits snugly. Have kids make a “touchdown” signal by raising both arms straight up; if the life jacket hits a child’s chin or ears, it may be too big or the straps may be too loose. Use infant-appropriate life jackets ● According to the U.S. Coast Guard’s Office of Boating Safety, babies should not travel on a boat— including rowboats, kayaks, motorboats and sailboats—until they are at the appropriate weight to wear an approved personal flotation device. ● Hold on to your baby while also wearing your own life jacket. Car seats are not a good option. If the boat were to capsize, the seat would sink instantly. A note about boats KNOW HOW TO KEEP KIDS SAFE NEAR WATER Follow your best judgment ● A large portion of boating accidents that occur each year involve alcohol consumption by both boat operators and passengers. To protect your safety and loved ones around you, it is strongly recommended not to drink alcoholic beverages while boating. ● We know you have a million things to do, but learning CPR should be at the top of the list. It will give you tremendous peace of mind—and the more peace of mind you have as a parent, the better. ● Make sure there’s a working carbon monoxide alarm on any motorboat to alert your family to any buildup of toxic fumes from the engine. Teach your kids the difference between open water and pools ● Teach children that swimming in open water is not the same as swimming in a pool. They need to be aware of uneven surfaces, river currents, ocean undertow and changing weather. ● Every child is different, so enroll your child in swimming lessons when you feel he or she is ready. Teach children how to tread water, float and stay by the shore. Get more tips For more information on how to keep your kids safe on land or water, contact: Brad Nelson, Coordinator Safe Kids–Kenai Peninsula Central Peninsula Hospital Email: bnelson@cpgh.org Phone: 907-714-4539
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