Dive Into Water Safety: Essential Tips for a Splashing Good Time

Adhere to These Water Safety Recommendations

Acquire swimming skills

Swimming Instruction Saves Lives.™ The most effective action anyone can take to ensure safety in and around water is to learn how to swim. This applies to both adults and children. Please note: The American Academy of Pediatrics now endorses swimming classes beginning at age 1 if the child is emotionally and developmentally prepared.
  

Ensure close continual supervision

Parents serve as the primary safeguard in keeping children secure in water. Never leave youngsters unsupervised near water, not even for a moment. If your child is in the water, you should be present as well! Persistent, vigilant monitoring along with barriers like pool fencing are vital even if children have completed swimming lessons.

Utilize a life jacket

If you or a family member is a weak or non-swimmer, or if you find yourself in an open water setting, wear a coast guard-certified life vest. There is no need to feel ashamed, as many facilities provide them free of charge.

Read all posted notices

Observe the safety rules and warnings displayed. Educate children that being safe in and around water is a shared responsibility – both yours and theirs.

Always swim with a partner

Instill in your children the importance of swimming with a companion. 

Look for lifeguards on duty

It is advisable to swim in areas monitored by lifeguards, but keep in mind that lifeguards should be viewed as the last defense when other safety measures are insufficient.

Refrain from consuming alcohol

Steer clear of alcoholic drinks before or during swimming, boating, or other water-related activities. Never consume alcohol while overseeing children in aquatic environments. Educate teenagers on the hazards of drinking alcohol while swimming.

Do not swallow

Teach children not to ingest pool water. To avoid choking, refrain from chewing gum or eating while swimming, diving, or frolicking in water.

Avoid inflatable swimming aids

Do not utilize inflatable swimming devices (like “water wings”) as substitutes for life jackets or floatation devices for children. The use of inflatable swimming aids may provide both parents and children with a misleading sense of security. These inflatable toys are not designed to serve as personal flotation devices.

Be cautious of excessive “too’s”

Avoid getting too tired, too cold, straying too far from safety, being exposed to excessive sun, or engaging in overly strenuous activities. Do not overestimate your swimming capabilities.

Stay informed about the weather

Be mindful of local weather conditions and forecasts. Cease swimming at the first sign of inclement weather.

Apply sunscreen

Use sunscreen on all exposed skin for optimal protection. Hats, visors, and clothing are recommended to prevent overexposure.

Supervise toddlers in shallow areas

Zero-depth entry pools feature aquatic games, sprays, and fountains with minimal water depth.

Observe age, health, and height requirements

Many attractions at pools and water parks have restrictions based on age and health considerations. Size and coordination are imperative for safety in open water flumes. Guests with neck or back issues, heart conditions, a tendency towards motion sickness, or pregnancy should not partake in high-speed or rapid-descent rides.

Utilize disposable swim diapers

Many pools mandate their use. Be aware of designated changing areas and utilize these sanitized locations.

 

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