4 | Coppell Community Experiences WATER-WISE SUMMER TIPS WATER-WISE SUMMER TIPS Summer is here, and it’s no secret that Texas knows how to bring the heat! With heat, however, comes the need for water–and in more ways than one. On the other hand, a lack of water is important in regard to water conservation. Check out these tips for the whole family to stay safe, healthy, and water-wise this summer! Water Safety May is recognized as Water Safety Month, but water safety should be practiced all year long, especially in the summer! By understanding three essentials of water safety–Lock, Look, and Learn–you can keep yourself and your family safe whether you’re at the lake, on the beach, or even in your own backyard. LOCK - Reduce Access to Water Keep bathtubs, sinks, and other household water emptied and closed when not in use. If you have a pool, it is helpful to have a lockable fence keeping the pool separated from the rest of the yard. Only swim in designated swim areas, keeping out of areas not meant for swimming. Always be aware of natural bodies of water nearby, and what barriers there might be. LOOK - Watch Children In and Around Water Keep an eye on babies and children and never leave them unattended. Small children don’t always pay attention to where they are going and can easily fall in. If you're near open water, keep in mind that the water can be murky and have uncertain depths. There is safety in numbers; always swim with a buddy and make sure everyone is accounted for. LEARN - Educate Yourself and Your Children Teach children to stay away from the edge of the pool and always ask a parent if it is okay to swim before jumping in. Learn how to choose and wear the correct life jacket, when to wear it, and how to swim. Check out the "Learn to Swim" classes for all skill levels available at The CORE on Page 14. Additionally, consider taking a life safety class! Coppell Life Safety Park offers a variety of safety classes and training courses, including CPR. For more information, visit www.lifesafetypark.org. Prioritize Hydration "Drink water!" might sound like a broken record, but water is truly a vital part of our everyday health. Water makes up about 60% of the body and provides support to nearly all bodily functions by delivering nutrients and oxygen to cells, regulating body temperature, and much more. Just like water safety, hydration should be a priority all year long, but especially in the summer. As earlier mentioned, Texas summers are HOT...100+ degrees hot. If you're outside for any amount of time, you're probably going to sweat. If you're sweating, you're losing water–and more importantly– electrolytes! Electrolytes are essential minerals that have an electric charge when dissolved in water. They help produce energy, maintain hydration levels, and regulate nerve and muscle function. Some healthy ways to replenish electrolytes include drinking coconut water, consuming fruits and vegetables (for example, watermelon, bananas, citrus, spinach, and avocado), or simply adding a pinch of sea salt to your water.
