Summer Safety Series: Water Safety

As the summer season approaches, it’s essential for parents to prioritize water safety for their children. Whether it’s a pool, lake, or beach, water-related activities can be both fun and risky. As a pediatrician, I want to share some vital information to help you keep your kids safe around water during the summer months. By following a few key guidelines, you can ensure a safer and more enjoyable experience for the entire family.

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Install a Fence Around Pools

One of the most critical steps in water safety is installing a four-sided fence around your home pool. The fence should be at least 4 feet high, with self-closing and self-latching gates. This physical barrier acts as a vital layer of protection, preventing unsupervised access and reducing the risk of accidental drowning.

Wear Life Jackets

When participating in water activities such as boating, kayaking, or paddleboarding, ensure that your children wear properly fitting U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets. Life jackets are crucial, especially for children who may not be strong swimmers or are unfamiliar with water. Remember, life jackets save lives, so make it a non-negotiable safety requirement.

Learn CPR

Every parent and caregiver should have CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) training. In the event of an emergency, CPR can be a lifesaving intervention while waiting for medical professionals to arrive. Knowing how to perform CPR correctly can make a significant difference in the outcome of a water-related incident. Enroll in a CPR course specific to pediatric resuscitation to ensure you have the necessary skills and confidence. Once your teenager is old enough, they can also become CPR certified which can help them be prepared when swimming with friends or younger siblings.

Provide Constant Adult Supervision

One of the most critical safety measures is to ensure constant adult supervision whenever children are near or in water. Designate a responsible adult as the “water watcher” during gatherings or outings, with their sole focus on supervising children in or around water. Avoid distractions such as mobile devices or engaging in other activities that might divert attention away from your child’s safety.

Keeping your kids safe around water is of utmost importance during the summer season. Drowning is the #1 cause of accident-related death in children aged 1-4, and you can take practical steps to significantly reduce the risk of water-related incidents and create a safer environment for your children.

Remember, water safety is a shared responsibility. Educate your children about the importance of following water safety rules, such as not swimming alone and seeking an adult’s permission before going near water. Let’s make this summer a safe and enjoyable time for our little ones!