Safety Around Water

For Parents:

• Make sure children know to always ask permission before going in or near the water.
• Designate at least one adult to closely supervise and maintain constant visual contact with all children playing in or near water.
• Closely supervise your children whenever they are in or near water – don’t rely only on the lifeguard. And be sure to avoid looking at your phone, reading a book, or other tasks.
• Teach children what areas to avoid, such as drains or the deep end where they will be required to swim or at least tread water.
• Don’t rely on water toys to protect weak swimmers. Coast guard-approved life jackets are the only devices certified to protect children. 

For Kids:

• Never swim alone without permission and a parent or adult supervising.
• Don’t participate in breath-holding activities or contests. Kids can lose consciousness underwater where no one can easily see if they are struggling or having difficulty.
• Wear a life jacket and don’t rely on water toys and floatation devices.
• Don’t jump in water to save a friend who is struggling – instead remain out of the water and reach, throw an object (small raft, kick board, or floatation device) to help them.
• Avoid problem areas of the pool, including the deep end or drains – where young swimmers can get stuck and potentially be held underwater.
• Look before you leap – find out how deep the water is before jumping in. The lifeguard or an adult can help.
   

Contact us at 502-587-9622 with questions or for more information.