With summer days ahead, we can’t help but get excited for hot days where we can dip into the water. But as a parent we also can’t help but think of water safety for our children too.
This is why we thought it would be fitting to put together a list of some tips on water safety. We have gone to the experts at Aqua-Tots Swim Schools in Mississauga to give us the low down on what all parents and guardians should keep in mind around the water.
Tip #1 – Check Before You Swim!
Always have an adult check the water prior to going in. It is important to check how deep it is and if there is anything at the bottom that can be of danger. This way it will be a safe place for a child to swim.
Tip #2 – Buddy System
There is always safety in numbers. When going into the water, always swim with a buddy. Not only is it safe but fun too! Stay within your comfort level in the water and don’t be shy to ask for help when needed.
Tip #3 – Supervise
This tip can’t be stressed enough and a great warning for all parents and guardians. Make sure there is always direct adult supervision at all times when a child is in the water keeping a close eye to help prevent any in-water incidents.
Tip #4 – Finding Your Air
Practice having your child become comfortable with getting into the recovery position and finding their air on their back (doing the back float) when trying to find their place of safety.
Tip #5 – Fishy Cheeks
Practice the fishy cheeks method – inhaling air and holding for a count of 5 to build comfort with submersions.
Tip #6 – Jumping!
Everyone loves a good jump into the water but it is important to keep safety in mind. It is recommended to practice safe entries such as feet first. Avoid deep dives and belly flops for safety reasons.
Tip #7 – Pool Exists
Not only entering the pool needs to be done with safety but leaving the pool too. For tots and school aged children, the proper way to guide them safely out of the pool is by guiding their limbs by using elbow, elbow, tummy, knee and knee.
Tip #8 – No Running
A safety rule that everyone should follow is that there should be absolutely no running on the pool deck to prevent slips and falls.
Tip #9 – Clean Pool = Safe Pool
Keep pool toys away from the pool and deck area when not in use. This will prevent accidents in and out of the pool.
Tip #10 – Goggles
Ask your child to practice swimming with and without goggles. By doing this, you are allowing your child to adapt to the various water environments and it prevents your child to develop a dependency on goggles.
These 10 tips on water safety will have your family enjoying summer with peace of mind. We can not stress enough the importance of staying safe and enjoying the water.
Did we miss a tip? If so, we would love to hear them. Feel free to leave a comment below with what tip you would include.
Until next time…Happy Parenting!
-Momma Braga
This article is brought to you in partnership with Aqua-Tots Swim School, Mississauga.
