Hello Merfolk!
Summer is approaching, and while parts of the country are still getting snow, it's starting to feel a lot like Summer here in Arizona. I was once asked how we Phoenicians (People who live in Phoenix) survive the Summers. My answer, "Staying inside, or being by the pool." I'm sure anyone who is from, lived, or even visited Arizona could agree with that statement. With pools in almost every back yard, taking day trips to the lake, and plenty of other open water, there is such a danger with this. Drowning.
It's not a light subject, but it's something that everyone needs to think about year round, but it tends to happen a lot this time of year. I wanted to share with all of you some insights into the hazards and safety tips of being a mermaid in the desert.
Lets start with the facts:
Drowning is the 3rd leading cause of unintentional injury death worldwide. *
Drowning is the 2nd leading cause of unintentional injury death of Children (1-14) in the US.**
Nearly 80% of drowning related deaths in the US are Male. ***
Swimming lessons reduce drowning by 88% ****
Children can drown in less than 2" of water
NO ONE IS WATER SAFE
Last summer I worked with a company who offered Mermaid swim lessons. It was one of the coolest jobs I've ever had. I got to help little girls, and boys, dreams of becoming a mermaid come true. Having a background in teaching survival swim lessons, safety was really important to me, and the company, in teaching these lessons. If you, or your child, are not strong swimmers, you may want to think twice about these toys. They should really only be used by children 7+ who are comfortable in the water and know how to react if they get scared.
As humans, we are used to being able to use both legs. To use this toy, you must slide both feet into one flipper. This makes swimming cool, but can create a struggle when in danger. You can also get the flipper with a fabric leg cover that looks like a tail. This constricts the legs even more. This is a great toy and makes swimming even more fun, just PLEASE be careful and keep you eye on anyone using one.
Since mermaids love swimming, here are some tips on being safe around water:
Designate one person to watch the pool undistracted (change rolls every 10-15 minuets)
Have or build a fence around your pool
Turn over small pools, tubs, and buckets so it doesn't collect water
Place alarms on doors leading to pools
Swimming Lessons
CRP classes/Certification
Keep toilet lids shut and locked
DO NOT use floaties - Use weight suggested life Jackets
Never swim alone
If a child is missing, check the pool/spa area first
Stay tuned for more mermaid tips.
Stay sweet!
The Sugar Siren
Read more tips here with the National Drowning Prevention Alliance
Find a nationally accredited swim school near you
Find CPR Classes near youFree CPR Class in Mesa
Mermaid Swim Lessons
* Stat found from World Health Organization on https://tinyurl.com/k9x3t7k
** Stat found from World Health Organization on https://tinyurl.com/k9x3t7k
*** Stat found from World's Largest Swim Lesson on https://tinyurl.com/y8v3ezev
**** Stat from Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, 2009