SHORELINES

Electricity Electric shock drowning occurs when someone makes contact with electrified water and becomes a conductor of electricity, leading to complete loss of muscle control, rapid or irregular heartbeat and even death. Docks and boats can carry sources of electricity. Faulty wiring or the use of damaged electrical cords and other devices can cause the surrounding water source to become energized. Never swim around a boat or dock where breakers or ground-fault circuit- interrupters are tripping. Never allow swimming near a boat, marina or launching ramp. Residual electric current could flow into the water from the boat or the marina's wiring. Be sure your boat and dock are properly maintained. Ground-fault circuit-interrupters and equipment-leakage circuit-interrupters should be tested monthly to ensure functionality. Conduct leakage testing to determine if electrical current is escaping the vessel or dock. Never use household electrical cords near water. Use only portable ground-fault circuit- interrupters or shore power cords (including "Y" adapters) that are "UL- marine listed" when using electricity near water. Know where your main breakers are located on both the boat and the shore power source so you can respond quickly in an emergency. Be aware of any potential electrical hazards by checking for nearby power lines before boating, fishing or swimming. Regularly have your boat's and dock's electrical systems inspected by a qualified electrician to be sure it meets local and state National Electric Code, National Fire Protection Association, and American Boat and Yacht Council safety codes and standards. SOURCE: ELECTRICAL SAFETY FOUNDATION INTERNATIONAL - esfi.org Heat Drink more fluids (nonalcoholic), regardless of your activity level. Don't wait until you're thirsty to drink. Warning: If your doctor generally limits the amount of fluid you drink or has prescribed water pills, ask your doctor how much you should drink when the weather is hot. Fans may provide comfort, but when the temperature is in the high 90s, fans will not prevent heat-related illness. Taking a cool shower or bath or moving to an air- conditioned place is a much better way to cool off. Wear lightweight, light-colored and loose-fitting clothing. Although anyone at anytime can suffer from heat-related illness, some people are at greater risk than others. Check regularly on: • Infants and young children • People age 65 or older • People who have a mental illness • ose who are physically ill, especially with heart disease or high blood pressure. Limit your outdoor activity to morning and evening hours. Protect yourself from the sun by wearing a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses, and by putting on sunscreen SPF 15 or higher (the most effective products say "broad spectrum" or "UVA/UVB protection" on their labels). SOURCE: CENTERS FOR DISEASE CONTROL AND PREVENTION - cdc.gov 32 | 2017 Vol:2

• Cover