College of Sciences Newsletter

Edition 14

July 28, 2002

Scire’s Safety Tips


Water Safety

Over the July 4th holiday, there were numerous drownings just in the Virginia Beach area. Even one drowning is unacceptable, but 4 is unthinkable! The College of Sciences would like to encourage you to use common sense around water. The most common reason for aquatic mishaps is a lack of safety knowledge. Lifeguards recommend the following safety tips:

LEARN to swim.

Swim ONLY near a lifeguard.

NEVER swim alone.

Supervise children closely at ALL times, even when a lifeguard is present.

PROTECT your head, neck and spine. First time dives into unfamiliar waters should be feet first.

DON”T swim against a current’s pull, swim sideways until free.

If you are in trouble, CALL or WAVE for help.

FOLLOW regulations and lifeguard directions.

Swim PARALLEL to shore if you wish to swim long distances.

Scuba dive ONLY if trained and certified and stay within your limits of training.

NO glass containers at pools or the beach.

NO beach fires except in designated areas.

DON’T rely on floatation devices, you may lose them in the water.

Alcohol and swimming DON’T mix.

REPORT hazardous conditions to lifeguards or other beach management personnel.

Stay CLEAR of coastal bluffs, they can collapse.

NEVER turn your back to the ocean. You could be swept off bluffs or tide pool areas without warning.

STAY at least 100 feet away from piers and jetties.

Hiking Safely

Going on a day hike is a great way to get away from people and traffic, but it does require some preparation. When you are deciding what to take, consider the particulars of your trip – the season, weather, location, and individual needs. Don’t forget the essentials:

A daypack with shoulder straps to leave your hands free

Drinking water (you should drink 16 oz per hour you hike)

First-aid kit

Map of the area

Pocketknife

Waterproof matches

Compass

Sunglasses

Sunscreen and lip balm

Insect repellent

Whistle (to call for help in an emergency)

Small plastic bag for trash (and toilet paper)

Identification

Depending on the season you are hiking, some consideration to your clothing and outerwear is needed. Remember to bring a:

Sun hat or cap (also a handkerchief or bandanna)

Swimsuit (if you plan to be near a lake)

Breathable, lightweight jacket

Hiking socks (if possible an extra pair)

Hiking boots suited to the terrain

Naturally, food is essential in any day outing. Pack sensibly with such things as:

Energy bars

Trail mix, raisins, peanuts

Raw veggies or fruit

Other gear that could help your experience be more pleasant is:

A hiking staff

Gaiters (if will be hiking in very rocky or snowy areas)

Gloves

Camera and film

Binoculars

Flashlight with fresh batteries (and spare batteries)

Reading glasses

Watch

Moleskin (for blisters)

Field guide (to vegetation, wildlife, terrain, etc.)

Money