As the mercury rises and the siren call of cool waters beckon, Las Cruces authorities urge caution to those seeking respite in pools, lakes, and other bodies of water. In a recent advisory posted by the city, local firefighters and police underscored the importance of vigilance and adherence to swimming safety protocols, emphasizing the role of adult supervision in preventing tragic incidents.
According to the City of Las Cruces, a non-negotiable rule is the constant oversight of children and the elderly when they are in or near water. The authorities are clear: do not assume that someone else will safeguard your loved ones. They also warn against overrating the protection that swimming lessons might provide, as no one is "drown-proof."
Further recommendations include avoiding reliance on flotation devices like Floaties as a substitute for supervision, ensuring that rescue equipment is within easy reach, and clearing pools of toys to remove temptation for unsupervised children. The guidelines also stress the importance of refraining from alcohol consumption when engaged in aquatic activities, either as a participant or as a supervisor.
Other safety measures highlighted are: thorough removal of pool covers before use and careful replacement post-swim, securing ladders of above-ground pools to curb unsupervised access, and proper fortification or locking of entry points to pools and hot tubs. Guardians are also urged to ensure babysitters and other users are fully apprised of the pool's safety measures. Personal preparedness, through CPR training, is highly recommended and could be crucial in an emergency. Moreover, Las Cruces officials caution against squandering respect for the unpredictable nature of river conditions, advising against using canals or irrigation ditches for recreational purposes.
For those navigating the water in boats or similar vessels, personal flotation devices are a non-negotiable safety garment, and solo trips are highly discouraged. The threat posed by diving into murky waters cannot be overstated, with unpredictable depths having the potential to result in severe injury. Meanwhile, focus is key when monitoring playful children; distractions like texting, gaming, or social media are to be avoided. And, in the gravest situation where emergency services are needed, having a charged cell phone and dialing 911 promptly could make all the difference.
