Water Safety

Swimming

• Adults need to stay with children when they are around water. Drowning is a leading cause of death for children! If a child is missing, check the water first.
• Ensure every member of your family learns to swim competently. 
• Always swim with a buddy.
• Employ layers of protection including barriers to prevent unwanted access to water.
• Always enter unknown or shallow water feet first.
• Watch out for currents, waves, and underwater obstructions - they're not just found in the ocean
• Know what to do in a water emergency, including how to help someone in trouble in the water. Have appropriate equipment, such as reaching or throwing equipment, a cell phone, life jackets, and a first aid kit. Learn CPR.  MTFPD offers CPR training.  Please see our CPR page for more information
• Keep the pool and deck clear of floats, balls, and toys after you get out of the pool.

Electrocution

• Wet skin or wet surfaces can greatly increase the chance of electrocution when electricity is present. Avoid handling electrical devices when you are wet.
• Turn off all power but do not attempt to go into the water to help someone who may be shocked.  Instead, use fiberglass or another kind of rescue hook that doesn't conduct electricity to help.  
• Do not swim during a thunderstorm
• Electrical appliances, equipment, and cords should be kept at least 6 feet away from water.
• Have a qualified electrician install wiring for new pools, hot tubs, or spas. 

Marina & Boating Safety

• MTFPD Video (1:21) 
• Electrical shock drownings can occur when marina electrical systems leak electrical current into the water.  Boats can also leak electricity. Never allow swimming near the boat, marina, or launching ramp.
• Be aware of Carbon Monoxide sources on your boat such as engines, gas generators, cooking ranges, or space heaters. CO can collect anywhere in or around a boat. Make sure there is proper ventilation for engine and generator exhaust vents. Install CO alarms on your boat. 
• Ground fault circuit interrupters and equipment leakage circuit interrupters should be installed and tested monthly. 
• Have a fire extinguisher on your boat
• Always use U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets.  MTFPD loans life jackets. Please see that website page for more information. Here is a short video about our Life Jacket Loaner Program Video (0:33)