The warm weather is finally back in South Florida and many families are going outdoors for pool, lake and beach fun. But a good time can turn into tragedy in a matter of seconds. According to the CDC, drowning is the leading cause of accidental deaths in children, 5 years old and younger, in the United States. The good news is that most water tragedies can be prevented. The American Red Cross wants you to be safe whether you’re the parent of a child or just a child at heart. Be sure to follow these safety tips when near the water.

•    Learn to swim well.  One of the best things anyone can do to stay safe near the water is learn to swim.  No one, including adults should ever swim alone. To find a Learn to Swim class near you visit www.southfloridaprepares.org

•    Outfit everyone with the proper gear.  Kids – and even adults – who are not strong swimmers or who appear to rely on inflatable toys for safety should use personal flotation devices whenever they are in or around the water or when boating.

•    Always keep basic lifesaving equipment by the residential pool and know how to use it.  A first-aid kit, cordless phone, phone list with emergency contact information, reaching pole and ring buoy with a line attached are recommended.  In addition, the Red Cross recommends that pools be surrounded by a fence that is at least four feet high with a self-closing, self-locking gate locks.

•    Swim in supervised areas only

•    Obey "No Diving" signs

•    Watch out for the "dangerous too's." Take a break at the point of being too tired, too cold, or too far from safety, too much sun, too little hydration, too much strenuous activity.

•    Don’t mix alcohol and swimming.  Alcohol impairs your judgment, balance, and coordination, affects your swimming and diving skills and reduces your body's ability to stay warm.

•    Pay attention to local weather conditions and forecasts. Stop swimming at the first indication of bad weather.

•    Learn Red Cross first-aid and CPR.  While the above tips can help prevent emergencies, it is important to know what to do if a situation arises. To register for a first-aid or CPR course visit www.southfloridaprepares.org.