Look before you leap into the water

WATER is essential to human beings for both sustenance and recreation.

For recreation purposes, people enjoy swimming in the sea, river or pools or taking a dip under a waterfall. Water also provides avenues for activities like fishing and other sports.

Malaysia is blessed with an abundance of water bodies like rivers, lakes, the sea, waterfalls, and even irrigation canals, and many are popular recreation sites for leisure seekers. But these bodies of water can also be potential danger grounds.

Data from the Fire and Rescue Department Malaysia (Bomba) shows that 500 people drown annually. This number is three times higher than deaths caused by fire. Does this mean people are lackadaisical to the dangers of water?

Think about it. Do we make it a point to know the depth, currents and other aspects of the river before we leap into it?

When rendering assistance to persons who are in emergency situations in water, do we use a personal floating device (PFD)?

And do we look out for children who tend to just wander off? Parents and other family members must teach children about the risks of drowning so that they can participate in water-based activities safely.

It should be compulsory for children to master life-saving techniques like cardio pulmonary resuscitation (CPR). They should also be taught how to use first aid kits and PFD properly.

It should be second nature to us to check our surroundings, such as the prospect of rain or soil movement, before taking a dip in a river.

Would we be able to save ourselves in the face of sudden rising water levels? Are we equipped to save our loved ones with CPR when the need arises?

To the general population, water safety may not be their highest priority. But if you want to know more, your nearest Bomba personnel will be happy to assist you.

VIJAYAN MARIMUTHU

Fire and Rescue Academy Malaysia

Perak