Tips on how to safely swim in PA waters

SCOTT TOWNSHIP, LACKAWANNA COUNTY (WBRE/WYOU) — With summer off to a hot start and a string of fatal water incidents, one local dive rescue team is sounding the alarm on safety.

The dive rescue specialist team from Scott Township says data shows children ages one through four are at the biggest risk of drowning, the next group? Senior citizens. But they say anyone can fall victim.

“The water doesn’t discriminate,” said Scott Township Dive Rescue Specialist Dive Captain Fred Bales.

Bales says there are a few factors that lead to drowning.

“The first thing that happens is not recognizing the hazard that’s there,” Bales continued.

For example, a river that may look still could have dangerous rip currents below the surface and be unsafe for swimming.

Other factors are cold water, alcohol, and being unable to swim.

“It’s just a recipe for disaster,” Bales added.

Experts say one of the best ways to keep yourself safe by or in the water is by wearing a personal floatation device.

“We’ve never had a person that was wearing a life vest, or a PFD, Personal Floatation Device, we’ve never had one, that was a drowning victim,” Scott Township Dive Rescue Specialists President Bill White said.

Bringing a buddy when you swim can also save your life.

“When you run into trouble, you need a buddy there someone that can call for help,” White added.

White says it’s important to remember, however, if your friend is struggling in the water, letting them grab onto you may create more chaos.

“Don’t ever let a person that’s in distress grab ahold of you,” White stated.

This could result in you falling in as well. Overall, when it comes to going for a swim, safety should take priority.

“You’re there for fun, you’re there to have a good time, just be aware of what you’re doing, and so on. A little common sense about what you’re doing prevents a whole lot of tragedies,” White continued.

Other tips include bringing a whistle and letting someone know if you plan to go in the water.

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