With the record-breaking heat, families will be likely to gravitate towards lakes, rivers and swimming pools this holiday weekend. Since the chances of drowning may increase with holiday gatherings, the City of Plymouth Fire Department urges residents to practice water safety.

“Drowning is silent,” said Plymouth Fire Chief Rick Kline. “You will not hear splashing and yelling. Victims typically slip underwater quietly. Parents need to maintain visual contact with their children who are in the water – or near the water.”

Drowning and serious brain injuries happen quickly – often in a matter of minutes. If a swimmer fails to resurface from the water, call 911 immediately.

The following are swimming safety tips to keep in mind during the holiday weekend.

• Watch children swimming. Parents must avoid distractions, such as using cell phones.
• Wear a life jacket. Weak swimmers should wear life jackets in the water. Do not rely on other flotation devices. 
• Never play with pool drains. 
• Locate nearby water rescue tools. Shepherd’s hooks and ring buoys are tools that can be used to help a struggling or submerged person.

The following are boating safety tips.

• Boaters must slow their speeds and use caution on crowded lakes and rivers. 
• A sober driver must be operating the boat. There have been 43 boating-while-intoxicated arrests in Hennepin County this year. 
• Children younger than 10 must wear a life jacket while the boat is in motion, according to Minnesota law. 
• Life jackets must be available for all boat passengers, according to Minnesota law. 
• Beware of boat propellers while swimming near the back of the boat.

For more information, call the Plymouth Fire Department at 763-509-5120.