Summer is here and that means lots of time playing in pools, oceans and lakes! It also means that drowning awareness and prevention is more important than ever.
In California, drowning is a leading cause of injury-related deaths among children under the age of five, but formal swimming lessons reduce the likelihood of childhood drowning by 88%! This summer while your littles ones are around the pool, beach and other water sources, be water wise by following these safety tips:
Teach Kids the Basics
Knowing the basics of swimming is a huge step in keeping your kids safer in the water. Teaching them simple skills like floating, keeping their head above water and moving through the water is crucial to keeping them safe. If they are an option for you, formal swimming lessons are highly encouraged.
Fence It!
Make sure all pool areas have a fence fully surrounding them. Fences prevent accidental water entries and keep play areas separate from the pool, keeping children away when they aren’t supposed to be swimming.
Always Be On Watch
Drowning happens quickly and quietly. Children in the water must be supervised at all times, by a watchful adult who is paying 100% attention.
Use Safety Devices
Life jackets and floatation devices help weaker swimmers to stay afloat. Always make sure to have plenty on hand for kids who need the extra help in the water.
Safety Briefings
Make sure kids always ask permission before entering the water. Host a little meeting about expectations and make sure everyone waits until they get their “briefing.” Outline where they can swim, jump in, how they can jump in, and anything else safety related. A great time to do this is while applying sunscreen.
Swimming is a great way to get your kids outside, active and cooled off during the hot summer days. By following these tips you can ensure they have a fun and more safe time in the water.