Water Safety for Children

Swim season will be beginning soon. It's actually already started in Florida. I have signed my kids up for another round of swimming lessons starting next month. We don't have a pool, so they don't always get to stay up to date with their swimming skills.

Here are some water safey tips to keep in mind to keep your kids safe during swimming season.

• Never take your eyes off your children while they are swimming, even for a moment. Consider using a buddy system for the children as well.


• If you're in a group, take turns with other adults being the designated "water watcher" to keep eyes on the children.


• While supervising, avoid distractions, like phone use and/or reading or talking.


• Maintain visual contact with the children and the water.


• Teach children to swim beginning at age four.


• Don't rely on water wings or other inflatables.


• If your child can't swim, stay within arm's reach at all times.


• Use only U. S. Coast Guard approved personal flotation devices.


• Tell children to stay away from drains and tie up long hair to prevent entanglement.


• Keep gates to pool areas latched.


• Look for life-saving equipment at the pool.


• Learn infant and child CPR. Contact your local Red Cross for local classes.


• Make sure children stay within designated swimming areas in the ocean, lakes, and rivers.


• Never allow diving in water less than nine feet deep.


• Never leave children alone in the bathtub.


• With younger children, keep toilet lids down, and doors to laundry and bathrooms closed.