Full Notification

Summer is here! The Suffolk County Department would like to take a moment to remind you of a few safety tips to keep in mind while you enjoy your time at the beach, the lake or pool.

Always have a first aid kit readily available and keep a phone nearby to use in case of emergencies.

Keep small children within arm’s reach at all times.

Designate someone to be responsible for watching the children in and around the water.

The designated “watcher” should not be distracted by outside conversation and should be able to reach someone in distress quickly

If you have to leave the water area for any reason, make sure to take children with you.

Be sure to keep all toys and flotation devices away from the pool when not in use. Young children can be attracted to the toys near the water’s edge.

If you have a pool at home make sure that it is totally enclosed by a fence. The fence should have a self-closing and self-latching gate. Be sure to install child safety locks on all doors leading to the backyard and consider installing a door alarm to notify you when the door is opened but remember that children must ALWAYS be supervised when in and around the water.

Make sure that all hot tubs have a cover that latches and that the latches are in good working order.

Empty all buckets, pails and bathtubs immediately after use. Store wading pools upside down so that they cannot collect water. A drowning can occur in just inches of water!

Learn CPR

NEVER SWIM ALONE – even experienced swimmers can experience medical emergencies while in the water

Please remember that even with swim lessons no child is “drown proof.”

More information can be found through various websites including The American Red Cross (www.redcross.org/prepare/disaster/water-safety) and Pool Safely (www.poolsafely.gov).

The men and women of the 7th Precinct wish you and your family a happy safe summer!