Summer Water Safety program planned by Union Hospital

There is nothing quite as inviting as a cool dip in the pool on a sweltering summer day. But with the opening of area parks and pools comes the potential for water-related accidents. If that wasn’t enough, exposure to the sun increases the risk of developing skin cancer. Fortunately, with the right information, the risk of accidental death or injury in the water and over-exposure to the sun can be greatly reduced.The Health and Wellness staff of Union Hospital will present a Summer Water Safety program on Friday, June 11, from noon to 3:30 p.m., at the Uhrichsville Water Park. The program is free and no advance registration is needed.This program is for parents and kids alike to come and learn from the experts about water safety and sun protection. In addition to lots of fun in the water park, there will be door prizes and giveaways.The U.S. ranks fourth in the world for accidental drowning deaths. An average of 10 people will die from accidental drowning each day, half of those children ages 14 and under. Drowning is not the only risk. Last year there were over one million new cases of melanoma (skin cancer) in the nation.“These statistics are not only alarming, but unnecessary,” stated Pam Dummermuth, Union Hospital coordinator of Community Health and Wellness. “Teaching kids and their parents about the potential dangers in and around water and following a few key safety measures can help ensure you summer at the water park or local swimming pool is both fun and safe.”For more information about the Summer Water Safety program, visit http://unionhospital.org or call 330-602-0778.