Become a Safer Swimmer- Water Safety Tips For All

Every so often, I receive emails from local school, medical organizations, and other sources. Occasionally, I share the tips with moms and dads because it is good information that they may be able to use. I really liked the video on riptides. 

Keeping Kids and Adults Safe

• Through the American Red Cross water safety page you can enroll your child in a swimming class and learn where to find U.S. coast guard approved life jackets
• CPR is an important life-saving skill to know during a water related emergency
• Teach your children about the importance of pool safety through this interactive video game: “The Adventures of Splish and Splash”
• Make sure to keep a cell phone and first aid kit close by in case of an emergency
• And of course, remember to apply plenty of sunscreen to reduce the chance of skin damage

Staying Safe at the Pool

If you decide to swim at a pool this summer, remember to make sure that all equipment is up to date and that all pool drains are covered. If you are visiting a community pool, take the time to read and follow the pool rules posted and only swim at pools where there is a lifeguard on duty. At a residential pool, make sure there is a fence around the perimeter of the pool and an experienced adult swimmer should always be present. Learn more from PoolSafety.gov’s tips on staying safe at community and residential pools and spas.

Staying Safe at the Beach

It is important to remember that swimming at a beach is drastically different from swimming at a pool so you will need to be extra careful in natural bodies of water. The biggest danger of swimming in the ocean is being caught in rip currents, powerful currents on the surface of the water that can quickly carry you out to sea. Watch this video to learn how to avoid and escape them. Remember never to swim at a beach when there isn’t a lifeguard present and to familiarize yourself with the beach warning flags before you and your family decide to go swimming.