Summer is the perfect time to get in the water. There are lots of fun activities to get involved in such as white-water rafting, boating, kayaking, paddle boarding, jet skiing, and more. However, something that people often dismiss is how important water safety is! Sadly, unexpected accidents happen all the time that wouldn’t even cross your mind. Let me refresh your memory with a few important safety tips and beneficial equipment you can purchase to assist you on your adventures.

     Kayaking and paddle boarding are very popular summer activities. Here at Big R, we have a good selection to choose from. Although kayaking and paddle boarding aren’t as intense as let’s say jet skiing, it’s very important to wear your life vests! They should be a necessity any time you get in the water for any summer activity especially if you get tired quickly and aren’t an exceptional swimmer. Even if you are an exceptional swimmer, it is important to wear your life vests. If you are boating or jet skiing, and you get tossed out or the vessel capsizes, it is better to be prepared. The waves from another boat could take you underwater, and a life vest could be that one key item that saves your life by keeping you afloat.

     Another very important purchase for boating and lake activities is a signal flag. We carry an Eagle Claw Boat Signal Flag. These allow you to signal to other boats and vice versa. Communicating while operating any motorized water vehicle is just as important as communicating when on the road. A basic safety whistle would also be a resourceful purchase. I wouldn’t say they are a necessity, but an extra asset to be mindful of when shopping for your water safety needs. These whistles could potentially be important life-saver items depending on the circumstances. We carry the Shoreline Marine Safety Whistle Basic.

Some people like to start their summer water activities when the water temperature is still freezing and not body temperature appropriate. There is nothing wrong with that, but it is always best to come prepared. Purchasing the proper attire such as a wetsuit, swimming cap, ear plugs, booties, and gloves would be sufficient. If your boat happens to tip over, and for whatever reason, you get stuck in the water for an adequate period, these articles could prevent you from getting hypothermia.

First aid kits are always important. You never know when an accident will happen so it’s best to come prepared. One of the better first aid kits we carry is the 3M first aid kit, 118 pieces. This 118 PC Package comes organized in a weather-resistant plastic case and can be wall-mounted. We also carry the Coghlan’s Trek 1 first aid kit. This is more of a basic practical kit containing 23 useful components in a lightweight nylon case. To see more of a selection, shop at your local Big R.

As we know, it’s very easy to get dehydrated on hot, summer days. Water is essential for any summer, water activity. You can purchase our Yeti water bottles which keep whatever beverage you have nice and cold. They also come in different sizes and colors. If you would rather purchase a case of water to make it more abundant, you can purchase one of our Yeti Coolers to store your waters in. Along with your cooler, you may want to purchase a cover to protect it from weather damage and some ice packs to really keep your drinks cool. Our coolers are also great for storing food. You don’t want to be stuck out on the lake all day hungry or thirsty.

Clearly, water safety is very important and there are purchases you can make to be more preventative when accidents occur. Don’t swim alone. Always have at least one other person with you. Remember to put those life vests on. Carry one for at least every person on the boat and then one extra. Don’t play breath-holding games and don’t swim farther than you can without getting tired; and remember to always stay away from pool drains when swimming in a pool. It’s always beneficial to know CPR especially if you’re around water activities often. Check out your local Big R to see what other items we carry to help you have a wonderful and safe summer!