
By Dr. Rachel Mayer, Liberty Pediatrics
Swimming is a great way to have fun and stay active during the summer, but it is important to stay safe. Drowning, which is one of the top causes of accidental death for kids ages 1 to 4, can happen quickly and silently. Fortunately, it is also preventable.
Here are 10 simple tips to help keep your family safe around water:
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Set the rules before swimming.
Talk with your child about water safety rules before going to a pool, lake, or beach. Make sure they understand and agree to follow them every time. -
Teach your child to ask permission before going near the water.
This can help you stay aware that your child needs to be watched extra closely. -
Stay close to young or non-swimming kids.
If your child cannot swim yet, stay within arm’s reach when they are in or near the water. This is called “touch supervision” and it helps prevent accidents. -
Keep an eye on kids at all times.
Even if there is a lifeguard, never leave your child alone near water. If you are with older kids, you can set up a buddy system, but an adult should still be watching. -
No fake drowning.
Make sure your child knows not to pretend they are in trouble. It could distract someone from helping in a real emergency. -
Teach your child how to swim.
Swimming lessons are important. They teach kids how to stay safe and feel more confident in the water. -
Enter feet first.
Jumping or diving into shallow water is dangerous. Teach kids to go in feet first. Never dive into a shallow end or into a body of water with an unknown depth. -
Take breaks to avoid getting too tired.
Swimming uses a lot of energy, especially in the sun. Set a time limit for swimming and take regular breaks to rest and drink water. -
Use a life vest, not inflatable floaties.
If your child cannot swim well, have them wear a life vest. Blow-up floaties can create a false sense of security and pose a safety risk. -
Be ready for emergencies.
Keep a phone nearby in case you need to call for help. It is also a good idea for parents to learn CPR. Knowing what to do in an emergency can save a life.
With these simple tips, your family can enjoy the water while staying safe. A little preparation goes a long way in making summer fun and worry-free.