Drowning Prevention Tips
Summer is fast approaching. Whether you're headed to the beach for spring break or you're planning ahead for the warm summer months, you may find yourself worrying about the risks of drowning. Keep your child safer this summer, whether you're at the beach, lake, or pool by following some of these key drowning safety prevention tips.
1. Invest in Swim Lessons
Even little ones can learn how to swim, and the sooner you put them in swim lessons, the more comfortable they'll be in the water. Some of the most basic skills can help save their lives in an emergency. Keep in mind that swim lessons may be a long process, so get your child signed up now to prepare for summer. Did your child have swim lessons last year? Consider a few refresher lessons to be sure that they're prepared for the summer months.
2. Never Allow Children to Swim Alone
Even older children who seem to swim very well can be at risk for drowning. Never allow children to swim alone, no matter how confident they are in their swimming abilities. Insist on a buddy system even for teens and preteens.
3. Keep Your Eyes on Your Kids
Even in shallow water, kids can drown in the blink of an eye. Make sure that if they are in the water, kids are supervised at all times. Many drowning accidents occur because all the adults in the room assume that someone else is watching the kids. If there are multiple adults around, take the time to be sure of who is watching the kids--or watch them yourself. Too many eyes are always better than none! For toddlers and other young swimmers, adults should be within arm's reach, even when the child is wearing a flotation device.
4. Choose the Right Flotation Device
Do your research and find the right flotation device for your child's age and weight. Test them with it in the water to make sure that they stay upright even if they wiggle around, jump off, or perform water gymnastics.
5. Practice Pool Safety
Toddlers and other little ones should not have unsupervised access to water. If you have a pool, make sure that you also have pool locks and other devices to help maintain safety. Consider installing a pool alarm that will sound if anything breaks the surface of the water.Do you need more help keeping your child safe and healthy this summer? Contact us today to learn how we can help.
