Water Safety Guide

Whether you are swimming and boating in the ocean, lake or river, be aware of your surroundings and consider the following water safety tips and suggestions.

• Never take your eyes off of children in the water - even for a moment!  If in a group, take turns watching with other adults.  Stay alert and avoid distractions like reading or using the cell phone.
• Children should always wear a life jacket while on a boat or near water.  The life jacket should fit snugly and not allow the child's chin or ears slip through the neck opening.
• Do not rely on inflatable toys.  If your child can't swim, stay within an arm's reach.
• Teach children to swim at an early age as well as the skills needed to be safe in various types of water.
• Make sure children swim in areas designated for swimming.
• Teach children not to dive into unfamiliar water because you never know what's hidden under the surface.
• Do not let children under the age of 16 operate a personal watercraft such as a jet ski.
• Learn infant and child CPR and rescue safety tips.
• Alcohol and boating don't mix.
• Take a boating education course.
• Participate in a vessel safety check program offered every year for free by the Lane County Sheriff's Marine Patrol.

Float Plan
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Basic Outdoor Survival

No matter where you are going, be prepared for emergencies and make it a habit to carry the essentials with you everywhere.  Here are some tips that will help you not need search and rescue services.

• Leave a note with someone listing your destination, route and when you are returning.  Also, list the gear you are taking with you.
• If you go with someone, know their level of experience and never separate.  If you go alone, understand the risks.
• Learn about the area you are heading to, the trails, hazards, campsites, water sources and habitat.  If possible, take a map.
• Mark your trail with bright flagging of the trail becomes hard to see.
• Look around you so you know what the area looks like from different directions.
• Plan for sudden changes in weather and health.
• Have a compass and know how to use it.
• Eat and drink often.
• Keep dry as hypothermia can develop quickly.
• Use common sense

Take the Essentials

• Map
• Compass
• Extra Food and Water
• Firestarter
• Warm Clothing
• Flashlight / Headlamp
• First Aid Kit
• Whistle
• Rain / Wind Gear
• Pocket Knife / Hatchet
• Large Garbage Bags
• Sunscreen and Bug Repellent
• #550 Parachute Cord
• Signal Mirror (or an old CD)