Water Safety Tips

Summer is upon us and with temperatures in the 90’s we all want to find a way to beat the heat.  Swimming pools, water parks, and oceans are all options that people choose to keep cool, but with these come the importance of water safety.  In many states, drowning is the leading cause of accidental deaths in young 

children, so it’s important to teach your children how to swim.

Swimming lessons can save your child’s life, and can be taught from the age of one.  Even if your child or teen knows how to swim encourage them to go out with a buddy just in case something happens. It’s also important to make sure that the swimming pool has a life guard on duty. When on the open water such as a lake or the ocean, life jackets can mean the difference between life or death.

Supervision of your children is an important duty of parents or siblings. Make sure young children always have someone watching them when they are swimming. Don’t always rely on a life guard to do their job. You are their first line of defense if they get to tired or roughhouse with friends.

Wear sunscreen!!! This isn’t a water safety tip, but it is a critical one for anyone spending extended time in the sun. Using sunscreen with a minimum of SPF 45 will help prevent burns from a day in the sun. It’s important to reapply the sunscreen at least ever hour to stay protected; fair skinned people should reapply every 30 minutes. Keep some aloe vera in the refrigerator just in case some burns do happen, it will sooth the tender burnt skin. Your children will thank you for the cool gel.

Remember to hydrate when you are out at a pool or outside event. It’s important to bring some water and snacks to keep both you and your children happy in the sun. Sodas and caffeine drinks aren’t good for hot sunny days, as they contribute to dehydration. 

Keep these tips in mind when you are out with your family this summer.