Warm Weather Means Crowded Lakes in Minneapolis

Minneapolis lakes will be busy this weekend and the Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office wants to remind swimmers to put safety first.

“This year, there have been seven accidental drownings and 12 near-drownings in Hennepin County,” spokesperson Lisa Kiava said in a press release. “For people planning to enjoy water recreation, the Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office reminds you to remain vigilant about safety precautions.”

Kiava said that in 70 percent of cases where young children drowned, parents were nearby.

“Being nearby isn’t enough,” Kiava said. “Parents must avoid distractions such as using cell phones or talking with other adults.”

Tips to keep in mind for the weekend include:

Watch – your kids

• In 70% of cases where young children drowned, one or both parents were nearby. Being nearby isn’t enough. Parents must avoid distractions such as using cell phones or talking with other adults.
• Parent supervision is needed even when there are lifeguards on duty.

Wear – a life jacket

• Weak swimmers or non-swimmers may wear life jackets in swimming pools and any body of water.  Adult supervision is still needed.
• Do not rely on water wings or other inflatable devices.

• Learn to swim. Kids and adults must know how to swim in the Land of 10,000 Lakes.
• Learn about safety equipment – keep a shepherd’s hook near a pool.  Hand the hook to the struggling person so they can be pulled to safety. Remember that a struggling person may put a rescuer at risk by pulling them down into the water.
• Learn about safety precautions for residential and backyard kiddie pools.
• Learn CPR.
• Learn about safety precautions with backyard kiddie pools.