NORTHERN CALIFORNIA – As the nation kicks off the unofficial start of summer this Memorial Day weekend, Pacific Gas and Electric Co. offers these safety tips when enjoying water activities in local spots to cool off.

– Supervise children around open bodies of water. Appoint a designated “water watcher,” taking turns with other adults.

– Know your limits. Swimming in open water is more difficult than in a swimming pool, and unseen hazards may lie below.

– Wear a life jacket. Even the best swimmers can misjudge the water and their skills when boating or swimming.

– Know the law. Every child under 13 must wear a life jacket when on a moving vessel of any length.

– Diving in cold water can trigger cardiac arrest, temporary paralysis, hypothermia and even drowning

For more information, visit www.pge.com/hydrosafety .