PORTLAND, Maine — In response to a handful of emergencies occurring in southern Maine over the past couple of weeks, safety experts are offering tips to help prepare you for those unexpected situations that could quickly become life-threatening without the right tools or know-how.
Although many use the summer months to relax and hit the beach, Scarborough Beach Lifeguard Supervisor Dave Currier wants to remind people to stay vigilant to dangers when heading to their favorite cool-off spots.
Whether at a beach or lake, Currier said getting familiar with the characteristics of any body of water especially if you're unfamiliar with the area can help you assess any risks.
"Getting to know that if it's a town-run beach, for example. Call the town and find out, 'Are there dangers in the water? Are there any places I should go?'" Currier added.
With the majority of the rescues at Scarborough Beach State Park caused by rip currents, also called rip tides, Currier said swimming parallel to the shore as soon as possible is the best way to get to safety.
For parents supervising on shore, Currier also recommended advising young ones to only go waist-deep in the water.
"Having the parents always within arms' reach of the children [is] very important, keeping them in close," Currier said.
He said having a first aid kit with band-aids, gauze, gloves, breathing barriers, a tourniquet, and a way to call 911 is great to have on hand.
"I believe the national average is that everyone will call 911 at least once in their life," Scarborough Emergency Communications Manager Joe Thornton said.
Since the start of summer, Thornton said his team has already seen a spike in calls to the center, covering towns Scarborough, Buxton, and Old Orchard.
If you're ever hesitant to call 911, Thornton said that any time you might be urgently concerned for your or someone else's life or property—no matter how small—dial 911.
"911 is there for a reason—gage yourself," Thornton said. "If you feel you're in an emergency, call 911."