With summer officially here, the Malibu/Lost Hills Sheriff’s Department would like to remind Malibu residents of important tips for water, fireworks and alcohol safety. The Sheriff’s Department released information reminding residents that two-thirds of all drowning deaths occurs during the summer months, fireworks are illegal throughout all of Los Angeles county and that every 51 minutes in America someone is killed in a drunk driving crash. These realities are reasons to observe responsible safety precautions.
The following tips were provided by the LA County Sheriff’s Department:
Water
Safety:
* Supervise children around any body of water. It takes seconds for a child to fall in water, and less than two minutes after their head goes down underwater to drown.
* Designate an adult to supervise the children swimming for a certain amount of time. Hiring a lifeguard is a great alternative when having a pool party and children are present.
* If your child is learning to swim, make sure they are wearing a flotation device that is Coast Guard approved.
* Gates around a pool are a must. Gates are to keep children out of the pool area when there is no adult or lifeguard present. Teach your children to NEVER go through any pool gates when they are closed.
* While at the beach, closely monitor your children both in and out of the water. With large crowds and constant activity, keep your eyes on them to keep them safe.
* Learn CPR. It will give you great piece of mind. Local hospitals, fire departments and the American Red Cross offer CPR training.
Fireworks
Safety:
* In addition to being illegal, fireworks are dangerous in regards to personal safety and the high fire risk we are experiencing as a result of a long-term drought.
* Alcohol and fireworks do not mix.
* Fireworks should never be given to children.
* If you observe illegal fireworks activity, report it to the Lost Hills Sheriff’s Station.
Alcohol
Safety:
* Know your limit and plan ahead.
* Be aware of how alcohol affects you as an individual.
* Stay hydrated, particularly if you are in the sun for extended periods, and do not drink alcohol on an empty stomach.
* Do not drink and drive! Appoint a designated driver to keep your family and everyone else on the road safe.
* If you see what you believe is an intoxicated driver on the road, call 911 immediately.