Keeping children safe in and around water is incredibly important. Drowning is a leading cause of death in children and teens, and it can happen in an instant. If you have a body of water on your property, it’s essential to be prepared for any scenario. Continue reading to learn some important pool safety tips every parent needs to know.
Adult Supervision
When children are in or around the water, constant adult supervision is required. A water watcher should always be focused on the children in the water, even if they’re confident swimmers. If young children or beginner swimmers are present, the adult should remain within an arm’s length.
Adults should be distraction-free when they’re supervising any type of water activity. Eliminate the use of cell phones, refrain from drinking alcohol, and resist socializing with others. Since a dangerous situation can arise at any moment, you want to always remain focused. If there’s another adult present, take turns being the water watcher.
Swim Lessons
Knowing how to swim makes drowning less likely, so it’s a good idea to schedule swimming lessons for children when they’re at least one year old. A qualified instructor can teach your children the proper techniques for maneuvering in the water. Keep in mind that adult supervision is still required even if a child has learned how to swim.
It’s helpful to reinforce good swimming habits at home. Get in the water with your child and use a pool noodle to teach pool safety. A foam noodle will help your little one float so they can securely explore their surroundings. Once your child feels secure in the water, you can practice swimming fundamentals.
Secure Bodies of Water
Another pool safety tip every parent needs to know is the importance of securing the areas around bodies of water. Pools and hot tubs should have fences around them, as well as self-closing, locked gates that are always engaged.
You can add an extra layer of protection by investing in pool alarms that go off when someone enters the water. You can also be alerted when a child goes outside by installing alarms on your doors or windows. When it comes to water safety, you can never be too careful.
CPR Certification
It’s a good idea to be certified in CPR whether you own a pool or not. When done correctly, CPR can save someone’s life as it pumps blood to the person’s brain, heart, and other organs. It also opens their airway to start a flow of oxygen. Knowing how and when to perform CPR can provide an unparalleled level of peace and security when your children are in the water.
These layers of protection are designed to keep kids safe in and around water. You never know when an emergency can strike, so it’s best to be prepared for any scenario.
