Top 5 Water Safety Tips Every Parent Needs to Know
Keeping kids safe around water is essential, and these five tips are easy to implement for every family:
- Active Supervision: Never leave children unattended near water. Adult supervision is the most effective way to prevent accidents. Make sure an adult is always close enough to intervene, especially when younger children are in or near the water.
- Teach Key Rules: Establish clear water safety rules like “no running around the pool,” “always wait for an adult before getting in,” and “never swim alone.” Reinforce these rules regularly and ensure children understand their importance.
- Enroll in Swim Lessons: Early swim instruction can teach kids lifesaving skills, like floating or treading water. Kids as young as six months can start building water familiarity and confidence through lessons tailored to their age and ability.
- Fence and Secure Pools: Install a four-sided fence with a self-closing, self-latching gate around any home pool. This barrier significantly reduces the risk of unsupervised access and accidental drownings. Consider pool alarms or covers as additional safety measures.
- Learn CPR: Adults should be prepared for emergencies by knowing basic CPR. This skill can buy critical time in the event of an accident before professional help arrives. Many local organizations, including swim schools, offer CPR certification courses.
By prioritizing these actions, parents can create a safe environment for children while they enjoy the water. Regular reminders and consistent practices make water safety a natural part of family life.
