Water Safety

Island Life Means Water Everywhere

Living surrounded by water brings incredible beauty and recreation opportunities. It also brings responsibility. Drowning is the second leading cause of accidental death for people ages 5-24. The good news? Most water emergencies are preventable.

Never Swim Alone - The Buddy System Saves Lives

Always swim with supervision or a buddy. Even strong swimmers can face unexpected problems - currents, cramps, entanglement, or medical emergencies.

On Orcas Island, there are no lifeguards at our beaches, lakes, or ponds. You are your own first line of defense.

Know Your Waters - Different Hazards Everywhere

Ocean and Sound Waters

  • Strong currents and tides can quickly carry swimmers away from shore

  • Cold water causes rapid hypothermia, even in summer

  • Marine life including jellyfish and sea urchins

  • Rocky shores and slippery surfaces

Lakes and Ponds

  • Sudden depth changes near shorelines

  • Hidden hazards like rocks, logs, broken glass, or trash

  • Entangling weeds and vegetation

  • Colder temperatures in deeper areas

Swimming Pools

  • Depth varies - know before you dive

  • Pool drains can create dangerous suction

  • Chemical exposure if water balance is off

Essential Safety Rules

Wear life jackets when boating, kayaking, or paddleboarding - even strong swimmers

Use foot protection - aqua socks or water shoes protect against cuts and stings

Enter water feet first unless you know the depth and conditions

Watch for signs of trouble:

  • Exhaustion or difficulty staying afloat

  • Disorientation or confusion

  • Inability to call for help

  • Silent struggle (drowning is often quiet)

Special Island Considerations

Ferry schedules affect emergency transport to mainland hospitals

Remote locations mean longer response times - prevention is critical

Weather changes quickly - conditions can deteriorate fast

Cell coverage varies - don't rely on phones for emergency calls in all areas

Hypothermia Risk

Pacific Northwest waters are COLD year-round. Even in summer, prolonged exposure causes hypothermia.

Warning signs:

  • Uncontrollable shivering

  • Loss of coordination

  • Confusion or slurred speech

  • Drowsiness

Prevention:

  • Limit time in cold water

  • Wear appropriate gear (wetsuits help)

  • Get out and warm up if you feel cold

Life Jacket Facts

Properly fitted life jackets save lives - but only if you wear them

Types matter:

  • Type I: Best for rough waters

  • Type II: Good for calm inland waters

  • Type III: Comfortable for active water sports

  • Type V: Special use (inflatable, deck suits)

Check annually for wear, tears, or fading

If Someone is in Trouble

Call 911 immediately

Throw, don't go - use ropes, life rings, or flotation devices rather than entering the water yourself

Reach or row - extend poles, oars, or use a boat if safely possible

Only enter water as a last resort if you're trained and have flotation

Make Water Safety a Family Priority

Teach children that water demands respect and attention

Learn CPR - it could save a life while waiting for help

Practice water rescue techniques - know how to help without becoming a victim

Plan ahead - know where you're swimming and tell others your plans

Get Training

Swimming lessons are available through local instructors and programs

Water safety courses teach rescue techniques and emergency response

CPR/First Aid certification - Contact OIFR at (360) 376-2331 for class information

The Bottom Line

Water recreation should be fun and safe. Respect the water, use common sense, and always prioritize safety over convenience. Your family's safety is worth more than any shortcut or risk.

Emergency: 911
Questions: (360) 376-2331