One of the best parts of summer is being able to cool off in the pool, lake or ocean. While a day by the water can be a lot of fun, being vigilant when you and your children are making a splash is important to staying safe this summer. Being familiar with water safety can help prevent injuries around the water.
General water safety guidelines
- Stay up to date on CPR practices for both children and adults.
- When you’re around water with children, don’t take your eyes off them. If the child is four years old or younger, they should not be further than an arms-length away.
- Teach your children how to swim. You cannot solely rely on floatation devices to keep them afloat.
- Avoid alcohol or any other impairing substances while around the water.
Pool safety
- Make sure unsupervised children cannot access the pool by having the pool fenced in.
- Remove toys from the water so children are not tempted to go in after them.
- Keep emergency equipment, such as a first aid kit and buoys, on hand.
Pond, river, lake and ocean safety
- Both adults and children should wear a life jacket when around a body of water.
- Jump in feet first – you never know what’s under you.
- Swim and stay in designated areas.