June 15, 2009
(caption)In addition to the Sales Shop, YKHC ICEMS has assisted the State of Alaska in ordering supplies for Kids Don't Float Stations around the YK Delta. These stations are equipped with vests that boaters and swimmers can borrow while they are around the water, then return to be used by someone else.
Getting on a Boat? Be sure to Float! Wear your PFD
by YKHC Injury Control and Emergency Medical Services
YKHC's Injury Control and EMS (ICEMS) Department will be selling personal flotation devices (PFDs) throughout the summer.
YKHC purchases large quantities of PFDs directly from the manufacturers, resulting in a low purchase price. This translates into great savings for the residents of the YK Delta.
The YKHC Injury Prevention program operates this Sales Shop to protect the health and safety of people living in the YK Delta.
"We want to provide life vests and float coats at the lowest possible price, so that everyone can have the opportunity to wear a properly fitting life jacket," said Brian Lefferts, YKHC ICEMS Manager. "According to the Alaska Bureau of Vital Statistics from 1990 to 2005, 387 people drowned in Alaska waters. Of that, there were 66 deaths due to drowning in the YK Delta. That makes drowning the leading cause of unintentional injury related deaths in our region."
Fortunately, future deaths can be prevented. Teresa Markham, YKHC's ICEMS Training Specialist, who is working on the PFD campaign, says, "Wearing a PFD is the most effective way to save a boater's life. We encourage people to wear them any time they are on or near the water."
To be effective, PFDs must fit comfortably and snug. Make sure your PFD is made for your weight and size and properly secured when worn. There are many dangers in the river that could cause someone to be tossed overboard while boating, or swept away while swimming. For this reason it is important that PFDs be worn at all times while around the water.
Ordering a PFD is easy. ICEMS Sales Shop order forms are available at all village clinics. Completed order forms can be faxed to YKHC ICEMS by the clinic staff. When the order form and payment is received, we will ship to the villages for free. We accept check, money order, and credit card.
For more information, contact the YKHC ICEMS program at 1-800-478-6599. Thank you and have a safe and fun time on the water this year!
