Always Choose a Water Watcher
Supervision is the most critical factor in preventing water accidents. Designate a responsible adult as the Water Watcher whenever kids are near water, whether in a pool, at the beach, or in the bathtub. This person must stay focused, avoid distractions like phones, and always keep an eye on the children. Never leave a child unsupervised near water at home, in a pool, or in natural bodies of water.
Don't Rely on Water Toys
Inflatable floaties, pool noodles, and other water toys might seem helpful, but they are not safety devices. The only reliable flotation devices are U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets. Children should wear them whenever they are on boats or swimming in open water.
Get Swimming Lessons Early
The sooner children learn to swim, the safer they will be. While lessons don’t eliminate all risks, they significantly improve water safety. Start swim lessons at the earliest age your child is ready.
Stay Alert at Public Pools
Just because lifeguards are present doesn’t mean parents can relax. Public pools can be crowded and chaotic, making it easy for a child to slip beneath the surface unnoticed. Always watch your child directly, regardless of how many people are around.
Practice Open Water Safety
Swimming in lakes, rivers, and oceans comes with additional hazards, such as currents, waves, and underwater obstacles. Teach children never to swim alone and always enter the water feet-first to prevent spinal injuries from diving into shallow or unfamiliar waters.
Be Prepared for Emergencies
Preventative measures are crucial, but so is readiness for the unexpected. Parents should learn CPR and infant/child first aid and have emergency phone numbers readily available near the pool. Additionally, childproof fencing around pools, at least 4 feet high with a self-closing latch, helps prevent unsupervised access.
Other Smart Safety Habits
Beyond drowning prevention, water safety includes additional health precautions. Teach children to:
- Wear sunscreen to prevent burns.
- Avoid swallowing pool water to reduce the risk of waterborne illnesses.
- Walk instead of run near pools to prevent falls.
- Use a buddy system at waterparks to ensure no one is alone in an emergency.
Read more here: Water Safety for Parents | Johns Hopkins Medicine