HMC promotes swim safety amid summer heat, urges vigilance to prevent drowning

Doha, Qatar: Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC) aims to prevent drowning incidents in the country by educating the public on simple steps that can preven...

Doha, Qatar: Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC) aims to prevent drowning incidents in the country by educating the public on simple steps that can prevent such incidents.

As summer heatwave keeps on, more people seek relief in the water and HMC is creating awareness to promote safe swimming. In this regard, HMC has issued safety tips to follow, especially for children, when going to beaches or swimming pools to avoid the risk of drowning.

It has urged parents not to leave children unattended near water or swimming pools, especially children under two years of age, as a child of that age can drown in as little as 5cm of water within a few seconds.

Even if the kids can swim, it is advised to have adult supervision as a safety measure.

“Make sure they are wearing the appropriate swimwear for each age group and ensure that life jackets, rescue and floating equipment are available. It’s preferred to wear a swimming float,” said HMC.