Water Safety

A Safer Way to Travel

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Water, water.

Everywhere you look there's water.

Central Florida abounds with a variety of water play areas. Pools, beaches, lakes, rivers, and water parks. You could try a different variety every day and not run out of things to do for at least a week.

But would you make it a safe choice?

Please don't overlook the important issue of water safety. Can you swim? Can everyone in your party? Have you been drinking?

	DON'T DRINK AND DIVE!!! Alcohol affects your judgment, motor coordination, and your ability to regulate your body temperature
	Know the waters Is the area approved for swimming, boating, fishing, or personal watercraft?
	Avoid overgrown lakes and waterways It is very easy to become entangled in the overgrowth and the vegetation makes a great hiding place for animals that may not want to share their swimming hole with you.
	Do you know how to operate the equipment you will be using? Personal watercraft are more popular than ever. Do you have the strength and stamina to operate the equipment? Have you read the safety instructions that come with it?
	Is your equipment in good condition? If you are renting, check out the equipment carefully, before you leave the rental shop. Are there parts or pieces missing? Are you using it for its' intended purpose? Does it match your skill level?
	Is there anyone around you operating their equipment in an unsafe manner? You may take all the necessary precautions to keep yourself safe but you can't control the other guy. If someone is acting in a way that will endanger you or your party, look for somewhere else to play and/or report the unsafe person immediately.
	Is your hotel pool well lit? If the pool water is cloudy or discolored, don't go in.
	Is there safety equipment available and is it in good condition? Make sure you have access to safety equipment, including an emergency phone, and that the equipment is in working order.
	Never swim alone!!! If your hotel pool is secluded, then this becomes even more important. Make sure the emergency phone works.
	If it looks like rain, get away from the water. Lightning kills. Lightning can strike at any time. Don't wait until you hear the thunder. If you see a storm approaching, get out of and away from the water. If you are at the beach, get off the shore as quickly as you can. For more information on weather safety, see the Weather Safety page and check out