Summer has arrived in Suzhou.
Outdoor and water sports are drawing more locals to embrace nature, soak up scenic views, and stay active while having fun.
Paddleboarding, kayaking, sailing…
Families are heading out to enjoy the waters and make precious memories together!
But!
Before you dive in, here's a vital safety reminder.
Every summer, calm lake surfaces hide unseen dangers beneath.
Fun matters, but safety is non-negotiable.
Want to have a blast with peace of mind?
Save this ultimate water safety guide right now, and read every word carefully!
01
Life jackets aren't optional—they're lifesavers
A common myth: “I can swim, so I don't need a stuffy, uncomfortable life jacket.”
Honestly, please DON’T think this way!
Too many drowning victims are good swimmers—they suffer from cold-water cramps, exhaustion, or head injuries that leave them unable to stay afloat. When you lose control, a properly worn life jacket is your ONLY guarantee of staying above water.
Non-negotiable rule:
No matter how good a swimmer you are—whether paddleboarding, kayaking, or boating—you MUST wear a proper life jacket the whole time! Make sure the life jacket is intact and secure all buckles before getting into the water. It's your life-saving armor in an emergency.
How to wear a life jacket correctly:
(1) Slip it on like a vest and adjust it properly.
(2) Tighten all the waist straps firmly. A loose jacket will ride up in the water and choke you—don't cut corners here.
(3) Fasten the crotch strap to prevent it from sliding off.
(4) Give your shoulders a gentle tug and move around, make sure the life jacket fits snugly without shifting.
02
Stop these risky “wild water” stunts—don't gamble with your life
Beautiful views are never worth betting your safety. Say NO to these dangerous behaviors:
No paddling in wild rivers and lakes
never go paddleboarding or kayaking in remote, unregulated waters. Hidden currents, weeds, mud, and waves from passing cargo ships can flip your craft in seconds.
No water activities at night
Visibility is extremely poor after dark—you can't spot obstacles, and rescue becomes nearly impossible. Stay off Taihu Lake, Dushu Lake, and other waters after sunset.
No alcohol, illness, or exhaustion on the water
Don't enter the water after drinking to cool off. If you have high blood pressure, heart conditions, feel unwell, or are fatigued from lack of sleep, skip water activities entirely. Don't push through it.
03
Don't cut corners—stick to licensed venues and proper gear
Want to try paddleboarding, kayaking, or sailing?
Avoid unregulated spots and equipment.
Choose licensed clubs and official operating sites
Verify their business qualifications first—stay away from unlicensed operators.
Inspect rental gear carefully
Make sure the craft is in proper condition and well-equipped with all accessories.
Follow the rules
Never take jet skis or motorboats into restricted areas.
04
Life-saving self-rescue & first-aid tips
If an emergency happens, stay calm and remember these steps:
(1) If you accidentally fall into water
Don't thrash around—panic drains energy and makes you sink faster. Lean back and float on your back, keeping your nose and mouth above water. Use gentle hand movements to stay balanced. Grab your board or any floating object if you can. Conserve energy and wait for help—only swim slowly to shore if you're very close.
(2) If you see someone drowning
DO NOT jump in impulsively, and never form a human chain—this often leads to multiple victims. Yell for help immediately and call 110 (Police) and 120 (Ambulance). Reach out with a bamboo pole, branch, or rope from shore, or throw flotation objects like empty bottles or foam boards. Rescuing from land is always the safest choice.
(3) If the weather suddenly worsens
Always check the forecast before you go! If you encounter strong wind, thunderstorms, or severe weather, don't take chances—get off the water and take shelter immediately. Safety always comes before fun.
One Final Reminder:
Beautiful scenery returns every summer, and there's plenty of time for adventure. However, life only comes once.
May everyone enjoy the water properly and safely, have an amazing summer, and stay safe the whole season through!
审核：施钰超
