Water Safety Tips for Parents this Summer
Did you know: Among preventable injuries, drowning is the leading cause of death in children ages 1-4? That's why all next week, we will be highlighting water safety so that you and your kiddos can confidently hit the waves (or pool, or river, or lake...wherever you do your swimming ) while still remaining safe! Until then, here are some general water safety tips to teach your kiddos as we head into the weekend.
Teach your kids to never swim alone. Even the strongest of swimmers can get into trouble in the water. Strong swimmers are more likely to try flips and dives.
Supervise children in the water. In general, keep young children within an arm’s length from you. Older children should always be watched at all times.
Teach your kids not to play breath holding games. Heavy breathing and prolonged breath holding can lead to hyperventilation, which can lead to passing out under water.
Always have your children wear a life vest. Floaties and other toys are fine to help children stay afloat, but ONLY when they are within arm’s reach of a parent.
Don’t jump into the water to save a friend. Use a long object like a pole, rope, or life preserver to help pull a friend to safety. Remember: Reach or throw, don’t go!
Enter the water feet first. Severe injuries can occur when kids jump or dive headfirst into shallow water.
Dress your kids in brightly colored swimwear. This way, you can see your child from anywhere in the pool. Wearing lots of blues and whites can cause the child to blend in with the water, and you may not be able to see them if they are in trouble or at the bottom of the pool.
Stay within swimming designated areas. Don’t go into unsafe waters.
Avoid using alcohol when on duty for watching children. It can impair judgment and slow your movements down, leaving you unable to function appropriately if an emergency should happen.
Learn CPR. CPR can be the difference between life and death. Even though we try to follow all the rules, accidents can still happen, and it’s best to know what to do when emergencies strike.