Ohio State Parks Reminds Visitors to ‘SwimSafe!’ this Summer
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Adults reminded to ‘keep an eye on the kids’ around water
COLUMBUS, OH – As Ohioans prepare the celebrate the 4th of July weekend, the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Division of Parks and Recreation reminds adult visitors to keep an eye on children in their charge when they go swimming. This is the focus of the SwimSafe! beach safety program.
“Safety is an important part of a successful family outing in our state parks,” said Dan West, chief of Ohio State Parks. “Our SwimSafe! program is a reminder that in addition to packing lotions, beach toys and snacks, parents and adult guardians should take a high level of awareness along on any beach outing.”
To fully enjoy a safe visit at a park beach, follow these SwimSafe! tips:
- Keep a close eye on young children while they are in the water;
- Lakes are not swimming pools, the water is murky and you may not see where it becomes deeper, so exercise caution;
- Bring a cell phone to make an emergency call if necessary. Check before swimming that there is cell phone service in that location;
- Swim only in designated areas at the beach and the lake;
- Use the buddy system and designate one member of your party to remain on the beach to keep watch on the others while they are swimming;
- Enjoy the fun that water offers, but take regular breaks and relax on the beach;
- Alcohol and swimming do not mix. Leave these types of beverages at home when you come to the beach;
- It can’t be said enough, keep an eye on the kids!
Ohio State Parks offer 80 beaches on 47 inland lakes in addition to 9 beaches on Lake Erie. There are also 17 swimming pools in the state park system. Last year, almost 4.3 million people visited state park beaches and pools across Ohio.
Children who swim at Ohio State Parks with their families this summer can receive credit towards the ODNR Explore the Outdoors Swim with a Buddy activity. Explore the Outdoors is a hands-on family program that gives Ohio children the opportunity to reunite with nature, improve their physical and emotional health and discover the rewards of becoming environmental stewards. Program information and downloadable activity guides can be found at www.exploretheoutdoorsohio.com.
Ohio State Parks are operated by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Division of Parks and Recreation. ODNR ensures a balance between wise use and protection of our natural resources for the benefit of all. Visit the ODNR web site at www.ohiodnr.com.
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