Essential Water Safety Tips for Parents: Keeping Your Kids Safe in the Water

As someone who investigates drownings and has spent over 26 years as a lifeguard, I have a deep understanding of the swift and silent dangers that water can present. Through my experience, I’ve noticed a lot of water safety advice is often impractical, merely highlighting problems without providing real solutions. Therefore, I’ve compiled a list of 10 practical tips that I personally use to ensure my own children’s safety around water.

1. Safety Briefings

I started holding briefings with my kids before they enter the water, a practice that stems from swim lessons where they learned to ask permission first. During these sessions, I explain the rules, boundaries, and safety protocols while applying sunscreen. This not only keeps them informed but also instills respect for the water. I encourage their input on what they think constitutes safety, which often leads to valuable insights.

2. Understanding Water Depth

My children are educated about water depths and how these depths relate to their height. For instance, my 6-year-old understands that 4 feet of water is over his head, while my 8-year-old knows that at 4 feet, she must tread water. This awareness helps them make informed decisions about where they can safely swim.

3. Escape Techniques

I once jumped into a pool fully clothed to save a struggling child who had grabbed onto another. I teach my kids how to break free from someone who may be panicking and clinging to them. They know to take a breath, duck under the water, and push away before calling for help.

4. Staying Focused

I encourage my kids to help me stay focused on their safety. They understand that either I or my husband must be watching them at all times and can alert us if we become distracted. I’ve even set reminder alerts on my phone to help keep my attention on them.

5. Scheduled Breaks

We take regular breaks during swimming, typically every 30 minutes. These breaks are essential for both my kids and myself, giving us all a chance to rest and recharge.

6. Limited Trust

While I appreciate family and friends, I don’t trust anyone else to supervise my kids in the pool. If they’re swimming at someone else’s home, they must wear lifejackets. It’s just not worth the risk.

7. Embracing Lifejackets

Lifejackets often have a bad reputation, but they can be fun and cool! I encourage my kids to wear them during group activities. With everyone in a lifejacket, we can enjoy games safely.

8. Drowning Education

I educate my kids about the signs of drowning and the dangers of water. They understand that even good swimmers can get into trouble, and we discuss the reasons behind our safety rules.

9. Recognizing Dangerous Behavior

Phrases like “Hey, watch this…” often precede risky behavior. I use these moments to talk about safety and encourage good decision-making around water.

10. Watchful Eyes

I train my kids to look out for each other and others in the water. They know to count if someone is underwater and to alert an adult if they don’t resurface in time. This vigilance can make a critical difference.

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In summary, ensuring water safety for our children requires proactive measures, education, and constant vigilance. By implementing these strategies, we can create a safer environment for our kids to enjoy water activities.