Fredericksburg Parent

www.FredericksburgParent.NET 13 To further support this initiative, Stafford County Parks, Recreation, and Utilities offers free life jacket rentals at Falmouth Beach on the Rappahannock River for both adults and children. "We have not had any drownings of someone that was in a life jacket; it just has not happened," confirms Hensen. "The single most important thing you can do is be prepared. And the biggest piece of preparation that you can have is that life jacket." Hensen and his team of 70 certified swift water safety technicians have also done their part to improve river safety by stationing lifeguards at Falmouth Beach from Memorial Day to Labor Day. "Since we've started placing lifeguards at the beach, our visibility and the interaction that we have with the community, along with our immediate presence if there are issues, has greatly improved safety," Hensen says. Peterson reports that since these measures were introduced in 2021, there have been no drownings near Falmouth Beach. Families looking to learn crucial water safety and swimming skills can look to programs like YMCA's Safety Around Water. "The purpose of our program is essen- tially just to provide those essential water safety and swimming skills to children and their families…to prevent drowning incidents, promote water confidence, and competence," says Ryan Wolff, aquatics director at the Massad Family YMCA. Wolff adds the YMCA provides resources for parents who hope to instill water safety habits in their children early on. "For the little ones, we have these little games that parents can do with their child at bath time, like practicing blowing bubbles in the bathtub," says Wolff. "We have little cue cards that we give out so parents can ask kids questions to get them thinking about what could be dangerous around water or how they can have fun in a safe manner while around the pool or the beach." As families look forward to enjoying time in and around water this summer, Wolff offers a sobering reminder. "Drownings can happen very quickly and oftentimes they are a very quiet event," says Wolff. "The best thing that parents can really do is just be vigilant at all times with their child if they're in or around the water." Despite potential dangers, Hensen shares it is still okay to have a bit of fun. "When we talk about water safety, sometimes we as the rescue professionals can sound kind of doom and gloom, but I love recreating on the water," says Hensen. "It is one of the coolest things that we could do in our region. Just do it in a safe manner." April and Keith Peterson wearing their life jackets on the river. HEADED TO THE RIVER? MAKE A PLAN FOR SAFETY! Whether you are heading down to the river or relaxing at the pool, remember that safety starts with preparation. Here are essential tips to ensure your water adventures are both fun and safe: PRE-PLANNING YOUR TRIP: • Familiarize Yourself: Know the river's access and exit points. • Assess Skills: Ensure all activities are suit- able for the skill level of your group. • Safety Gear: Always have the appropri- ate equipment, including life jackets and ample water. • Inform Others: Share your travel itinerary with a trusted friend or family member. ON THE RIVER: • Buddy System: Never swim or paddle alone; always have a companion. • Wear a Life Jacket: Ensure every mem- ber of your party wears a life jacket at all times. • Protect Your Feet: Wear appropriate foot- wear to guard against rocks and debris. • Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration during your activities. SAFE PLACES TO SWIM: Falmouth Beach 401 River Road Fredericksburg, VA 22405 Lake Anna State Park 6800 Lawyers Road Spotsylvania, VA 22551 Aquia Landing 2846 Brooke Road Stafford, VA 22554 Friends of the Rappahannock and the Staff ord Fire and Rescue -Water Rescue Team at a River Safety event. The purpose of our program is… to prevent drowning incidents, promote water confidence, and competence

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