Summer is coming and with it, comes an increase in the importance of being water safe.
It is really important that young children learn how to swim and play safely in the pool. The CDC says that teaching your child to swim through professional swim lessons reduces the risk of drowning by eighty-eight percent. Water safety is important for all children, but is especially important for fearful children to have the knowledge to play and be in the water safely.
Swim lessons create a new world of fun and play as children build their confidence by learning new skills and socialize with their peers and swim instructors. Lessons can also help with children who struggle with bath time as the lessons allow them to see how fun the water can be. Oftentimes, children who once struggled with bath time begin to look forward to bath time so that they can practice or apply what they have learned in their lessons.
- Children should never swim alone.
- Children who cannot swim should always have a coast guard approved life vest, even if they are just on the pool stairs.
- Everyone should learn how to swim, adults and kids alike. Water safety for all reduces the risk of injury.
- Always supervise your children. Do not rely on a lifeguard or other patrons to watch your kids.
- Always keep a phone with you. It is important to be able to call for help when needed.
- Learn how to save lives. Take a local CPR class.
- Obey all pool and safety rules.
- Check the pool before swimming. Is the water clear and safe looking? Can you see the bottom?
- Do not play breath-holding games. Those can be dangerous and cause someone to pass out.
- Enter water feet first to avoid head injury.
- Diving should only be done if the child is taught to do so correctly, is supervised and does so in a designated, safe area. Do not dive where there are no diving signs.
