LYNNWOOD — South County Fire planned to open free life jacket stations Friday at Martha Lake County Park and Lake Ballinger Waterfront Park.
Through Labor Day, the self-serve stations near Lynnwood and Mountlake Terrace will be stocked with life jackets for children and adults to use during visits to the park, fire authorities said.
The aim is to increase their use and raise awareness about water safety, South County Fire spokesperson Shawneri Guzman said.
According to South County Fire, drowning can happen with or without life jackets — children require “distraction-free” adult supervision, Guzman said in a press release.
Drowning prevention tips
• Always provide close and constant adult supervision.
• Avoid distractions such as cell phones.
• Stay within reach of young children and inexperienced swimmers.
• Watch all children and teens swimming or playing in or near water, even if they know how to swim.
• Designate a water watcher when you are in or around water. A water watcher is a responsible adult who agrees to watch the children in and around the water without distractions.
• Use extra caution this time of year as water temperatures are cold even when air temperatures are warm.
• In an emergency, call 911 immediately.
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