Recent drownings involving swimmers, boaters and kayakers, are sobering reminders of the importance of water safety and preparedness. Before heading out to the pool or favorite swimming spot, the Red Cross of Northern Nevada offers some swimming safety tips: If possible, swim in designated areas supervised by lifeguards. Always swim with a buddy; never leave a young child unattended near water and don’t trust a child’s life to another child; have young children or inexperienced swimmers wear approved life jackets around water, but do not rely on life jackets alone. Make sure everyone in your family learns to swim well, with age-appropriate Red Cross aquatics and learn-to-swim courses. If you have a pool, secure it with appropriate barriers and make sure there is constant supervision.