S.W.A.P. S... W.. A… P… pring ater wareness rogram

Why are we talking about spring water safety? FLOODING! –Ice and snow are melting. –More rain. –The ground is still frozen and cannot absorb extra water. –Fast moving water. –Water is cold - 0°C to 5°C

Where does flooding happen? STAY AWAY! PondsLakesWetlandsDitchesStreamsCreeksRivers

What would you do? Call for help Climb, walk, or run out Swim Grab onto something or someone

What will work? Call for help –Always a good idea…but will there be someone around to help? Climb, walk, or run out –Will be difficult in fast moving water with icy banks Swim –Think about that cold fast moving water! Grab onto something or someone –Your muscles will not be working as well if you are very cold. –You may pull your friend in with you.

The Best Solution…. STAY AWAY to STAY SAFE!

How cold is 0°C to 5°C? Tests –Colour Test –Temperature Test –Finger Tip Test –Snap Test Only put on hand in the water and hold it there for 30 seconds!

How cold is 0°C to 5°C? Tests –Colour Test Red or pink –Temperature Test Skin feels cold! –Finger Tip Test May be slower or more difficult because of numbness and tingling –Snap Test May be slower or more difficult because of numbness and tingling

Hypothermia Sets in within 5 – 10 minutes of being exposed to cold water Can be life threatening Signs: –Mumblies – brain function affected by cold –Stumblies – muscle function affected by cold –Grumblies – not a good situation to be in

STAY AWAY to STAY SAFE