Summer is here and the pools are open!  Let’s grab our swimsuits and sunscreen and go have some fun.  Cooling off on a hot summer day at the pool/lake is always great, but we must remember how to stay safe. 

Here are a few reminders of how to keep kids safe near the water:

• Never leave children alone in or near the water at a pool or lake, etc.
• Young children (5 years old and under) and those who are not proficient swimmers, should always be within an arm’s reach of an adult in the water.
• Floaties (ex. Puddle jumpers, water wings, etc) are not the same as life jackets.  An adult must still be within arm’s reach of the child in the water.
• While boating, children (and adults!) should be wearing life jackets at all times, including on the dock or near the body of water.
• Never swim alone in the open water, always have a swimming buddy.

Drowning is the leading cause of injury death in children 1-4 years old.  This most commonly happens during unexpected, unsupervised access to water (ie non-swim times).

• Backyard pools need to be completely enclosed by a fence, at least 4 feet high.
• Even baby pools and inflatable pools in the backyard are a drowning risk.  Make sure to empty water containers and pools immediately after use.
• If a child is missing, always check pools, ponds, lakes, etc first.
• Prevent toddlers from going outside unnoticed by using safety gates, doorknob covers, or door locks on doors leading outside.  Make sure to close doors behind you.

References:

• https://www.healthychildren.org/English/safety-prevention/at-play/Pages/Summer-Safety-Tips-Sun-and-Water-Safety.aspx
• https://www.healthychildren.org/English/safety-prevention/at-play/Pages/Water-Safety-And-Young-Children.aspx