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www.FredericksburgParent.NET 21 Before going out on a boat or for a swim, it's important to assess the environment and either make adjustments or change your plans. Important environmental factors to consider: • River and ocean rip currents • Weather conditions • Water temperature • Water depth and clarity The Red Cross recommends learning to per- form these 5 swimming skills in various water environments: • Enter water that's over your head, then return to the surface. • Float or tread water for at least 1 minute. • Turn over and turn around in the water. • Swim at least 25 yards. • Exit the water. Make a family activity out of every member of the household learning these important skills! Federal law requires life jackets for all children under the age of 13 when boating. While not required, it is recommended that young children wear a life jacket when playing on or around piers, pool decks, or any place they could trip and fall into a body of water. To check out a complete list of life jacket require- ments for boaters, visit the Virginia Department of Wildlife Services website. PLEASE NOTE: a floatation device does not ever take the place of adult supervision. Protect your entire body with sunscreen, especially when boating or swimming. Because water reflects the sun's rays and makes them stronger, you will burn much faster in or around water. Many people believe body parts under the water are protected, but this is untrue. Water does create a barrier but nearly half of UV rays still reach the body within a couple feet below the surface. John Hopkins Medicine recommends using a broad-spectrum, water- proof sunscreen of at least SPF 30 to protect you and your family against harmful UVB and UVA rays. If sunscreen stings your little one's sensitive skin, trade your chemical-based brand for a mineral-based one. They're both effective at blocking dangerous rays, so it's merely a matter of personal preference. Sunscreen needs reapplying every couple of hours, especially when swimming or sweating is involved. But even with regular applications you can still get too much sun exposure, which is why seeking out shade, utilizing large-brimmed hats and covering up skin with light protective layers is still smart sun safety when spending longer periods outdoors. Visit WaterSafetyUSA.com and RedCross.org for more tips on staying water safe this summer! Skill Savvy Safety Supplies Slather Up Size-up Your Situation A flotation device does not ever take the place of adult supervision ...