Officials offer safety tips in partnership with City of Raleigh and Wake County Sheriff’s Office

North Carolina’s sweltering summers are nothing to scoff at, and when temperatures soar, Wake County residents flock to local pools and lakes in droves to swim, boat and kayak. However, these water activities come with responsibility and risks. Last summer, Wake County Sheriff’s Office and EMS recorded 45 responses to water-related emergencies. Now Wake County is highlighting water safety with its new Swim Smart campaign.

“We’re lucky that Wake County is home to some beautiful recreational waters like Falls Lake, along with dozens of public pools and splash pads, where we can all find some relief from the summer heat,” said Wake County Commissioner Shinica Thomas. “But it’s important that everyone takes the proper precautions to ensure that a day of outdoor fun doesn’t end in distress.”

Wake County has partnered with the City of Raleigh and the Sheriff’s Office to create a video and resources highlighting the essentials of water safety in a way that’s accessible and easy to remember. These essential tips include:

• Buddy up: Never swim alone. Keep an eye on each other.
• Get in the zone: Stick to designated swimming areas. “No swimming” zones exist for a reason!
• Get your float on: Always wear a life jacket in boats and kayaks, even if you know how to swim. It’s also a good precaution for weaker swimmers to take at the lake or even the pool.
• Water watcher: Designate a responsible adult to watch young swimmers.
• Dress to impress (the lifeguard): Wear proper swim gear. No jeans or hoodies in the water – that means even while boating or kayaking!
• Know before you go: Check weather and water conditions before heading out.
• Stay sober, stay safe: Choose a sober driver when boating.
• Reach, throw, don’t go: Help safely in an emergency. Throwing a life preserver or calling for help from a lifeguard is safer than jumping in the water with a drowning person.
• Lock the gate: Secure backyard pools with a locked fence.
   

"We want everyone to enjoy the water safely. Drownings can happen quickly and often without warning,” said Sheriff Willie Rowe. “Whether you're at the pool, lake or beach, stay alert, wear a life jacket in open water and don't swim alone. Let's work together to make this a safe summer on the water.”

The full Swim Smart video, along with resources like a list of safe swimming areas and local swim lessons, can be found at wake.gov/SwimSmartSummer.