Protect yourself and prevent drowning

  • Evaluate the weather conditions and avoid engaging in water activities in case of typhoons, heavy rain warnings, and similar situations.
  • Choose water areas with lifeguards on duty for water activities and follow their instructions. Do not swim or engage in any water activities in areas where there are signs prohibiting swimming or indicating dangerous water depths.
  • If you see dark clouds in the upstream mountain areas or the river suddenly becomes turbid with a large amount of sediment, quickly evacuate to higher ground to avoid being trapped by rapidly rising water.
  • When engaging in rock fishing activities, ensure to wear a life jacket, non-slip shoes, and a safety helmet. Stay aware of the coastal wind and wave conditions, as well as the tide schedule, and be cautious of sudden "sneaker waves" to prevent accidents.
  • If someone is drowning, shout for help and call emergency numbers such as 118, 119, or contact the coast guard or fire department. Do not attempt to rescue them by yourself without proper training or equipment. Check for nearby rescue equipment such as lifelines or lifebuoys to aid in the rescue from the shore.
Water Safety Related Websites:
  1. Ministry of Education - Student Water Sports Safety Network: https://watersafety.sa.gov.tw/
  2. Ministry of Education, Sports Administration - Water Safety Promotion: https://bit.ly/2TNOTyY
  3. Tourism Bureau, Ministry of Transportation and Communications - Related Announcements - Water Recreation Activity Management Regulations:https://bit.ly/2ujkOIh
 

5 Steps for Drowning Rescue:

  1. Shout - Call for help loudly.
  2. Call - Dial emergency numbers such as 119, 118, 110, or 112.
  3. Reach - Use an extended object to reach the person.
  4. Throw - Throw a buoyant object to them.
  5. Row - Use a large floating device to row towards them. 

10 Preventive Measures for Drowning:

  1. Be Legal: Choose authorized swimming areas equipped with lifeguards.
  2. Be Cautious: Be extra cautious of changes in water levels in lakes and rivers during swimming.
  3. Be Mindful: Pay attention to weather reports and avoid swimming in unfavorable weather conditions.
  4. Warm Up: Warm up before entering the water and avoid swimming in jeans.
  5. Stay Calm: Enhance swimming and floating skills and stay calm and relaxed if unfortunate enough to fall into the water.
  6. Don't Dive: Avoid risky behaviors such as diving.
  7. Don't Exhaust Yourself: Do not swim or play in the water when physically tired or in poor condition.
  8. Don't Stay Too Long: Do not stay in the water for extended periods and be cautious of hypothermia.
  9. Don't Go Alone: Avoid being alone and always keep an eye on the condition and location of companions.
  10. Don't Play Rough: Do not engage in horseplay or pranks in the water.

Update:112-08-18