As families converge on aquatic centers, pools, splash pads, waterparks and open bodies of water for recreational water activities this summer, it is vital to ensure safety is a priority for all people. The National Water Safety Month campaign supporters offer six important tips and reminders for parents and caregivers about safe water practices.
As you enjoy time in and around water this summer, keep these six water safety tips in mind:
- Capable & Constant Supervision: Actively supervise children and non-swimmers around the water, even when lifeguards are present. Don’t just drop kids off. Avoid distracting activities, such as checking email or social media. Drowning is quick and silent.
- Water Competency: No matter your age, learning to swim and survive in the water is one of the best ways to be safer in and around the water.
- Prevent Unsupervised Access to Water: Barriers and alarms help prevent access to water during non-swim times. Almost 70% of toddler drownings occur during non-swim times. Four-sided fencing with a self-closing, self-latching gate helps prevent unplanned access.
- Swim With a Buddy: Do not allow anyone to swim alone. Even at a public pool or a lifeguarded beach, use the buddy system.
- Wear a Life Jacket: Adults and kids should always wear a properly-fitted U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket while boating. Non-swimmers and inexperienced swimmers should also always wear a life jacket when in and around the water. Inflatable toys can be fun but are not a substitute for U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets.
- Be Prepared for Emergencies: Learn how to prevent and respond to emergencies by learning CPR.
National Water Safety Month is a joint effort of the American Red Cross, the National Recreation and Park Association, Pool & Hot Tub Alliance and the World Waterpark Association. Joining the NWSM partnership in 2022 is the National Drowning Prevention Alliance, a non-profit organization dedicated to reducing the incidence of drowning and preventing tragedy around water.
These organizations honor National Water Safety Month in May, along with thousands of aquatics facilities and professionals, through educational programs, public service announcements, governmental proclamations, dealer and aquatics business promotions, and the distribution of water-safety-themed materials, aimed primarily at the public and designed to help prevent drowning and water-related illness and injuries.
Detailed information and free resources in support of National Water Safety Month, for both consumers and businesses, can be found at www.nationalwatersafetymonth.org. Connect with National Water Safety Month on Facebook (@watersafetymonth).
