Dariana Molina, regional communications manager with the South Florida Region of the American Red Cross, joined Good Morning Keys on KeysTalk 96.9/102.5FM this morning to talk about water safety.
It’s so important to understand how powerful water can be.
Molina said, “We live in South Florida constantly surrounded by large bodies of water. It is incredibly important to teach children water safety, and just make sure everyone is water smart. We do a new array of swimming classes. We also do lifeguard training, if anyone wants to become a lifeguard. We have first aid and CPR classes that people can partake in and then we even do babysitting. So if you’re in charge of a child, it’s not yours, it’s always good to know these things as well.”
How can people find out where to go for that training and how to go about it?
Molina said, “If you visit our website, redcross.org, you can find all of that information and the classes nearest you. But you could also download our Red Cross swim app, which shows you different water safety tips. It also will show you where your nearby classes are. We welcome anyone, everyone and you can start the process online and then if it requires some in person training, then we would show you where to go and show you the next step.”
Heat safety is important as well.
Molina said, “We’re seeing warmer weather. We’re seeing a lot of rain these next few days, and it is only going to increase as storms are brewing in the Atlantic. So it’s very important to be mindful of what to do and what not to do when it’s really hot. It’s really, really important to stay hydrated, make sure you’re drinking enough water. We typically recommend three fourths of a gallon of water daily. It of course, varies depending on your size and your activity, but staying hydrated and drinking enough water is huge to combat heat. The three fourths of a gallon should not be all at once. It should be throughout the day, of course.
The Red Cross is always looking for volunteers.
Molina reminded, “Make sure that you and your families and your children are water smart and that you’re taking the necessary steps to be safe when you’re out in the water and then make sure to stay cool.”
For more information, click here: https://www.redcross.org/local/florida/south-florida.html