As parents one of your most important jobs is to look after your childrens safety and security. Most children enjoy playing in water, whether it be in the nearest pool or in the lake or river. There are many things to think about when allowing your children to play in the water in order to keep them safe around water while allowing them to have fun.
The first and foremost rule of water safety is pay attention. Don't use the water as a baby sitter. Even if your children are good swimmers pay close attention to what they are doing. Even adults who are accomplished swimmers can drown accidentally. Children may not always know what is safe and what isn't. An attentive parent or other adult may be able to head off trouble before it starts.
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Life preservers are a good choice to keep children safe. These are more necessary in a large and deep body of water than in a kiddie pool. They may be a little uncomfortable and bulky but will keep a child from drowning. In the interest of water safety lways use a life preserver if your child does not know how to swim. Inflatable pool toys are not a suitable substitute for a coast guard approved life vest. While boating, many states require children under a certain age to have a life preserver on at all times when the boat is underwary regardless of whether they know how to swim or not.
Another area of water safety to consider while enjoying the water outside is sun protection. Sun rays are especially brutal when reflecting off the water. Always apply sunscreen when enjoying the water. Children should use a sunscreen with an SPF 50 protection that is water resistant. This should be applied every couple hours especially if they are active and jumping in and out of the water. Some sunscreens will also contain additives to help protect against mosquitos which is important especially when swimming in late afternoon or whenever bugs are more active.
When swimming always be aware of your surroundings especially water depth. There have been many injuries related to diving into a too shallow pool or lake. Most pools are surrounded by hard concrete that can cause severe injuries if care is not taken. If swimming in a lake or river the water may not always be clear enough to see the bottom. Natural bodies of water do not have smooth bottoms. Be careful of underwater obstructions that may cause injury when swimming.
It is always a good idea to teach your child to swim. If you are not comfortable teaching your children it is a good idea to enroll them in a swim class. Most local municipalities have public pools that give swimming lessons in the summertime. Your local YMCA will also likely offer swimming classes. A professional instructor can have your child swimming in no time. Swimming lessons will also go a long way toward making your child comfortable around water. Pools and especially lakes and rivers can be intimidating to a child. Many accidental drownings occur because someone panicked and did not know what to do to save themselves. If your child has been taught what to do they are much less likely to panic if something goes wrong.
Preparation is always key when going swimming. Teach your children what to look for before going in the water. Know what's in the water before diving in order to avoid injury. If swimming outside always check to weather. Lightning and water do not mix. Be respectful of others swimming near you. Swimming is a relaxing activity that provideds many opportunities to make new friends. Everyone is relaxing and in a good mood when around the water. Many lifelong friends can be made on the water. Take advantage of the opportunity to enjoy yourself! Water safety is a simple and straightforward process. A little care and planning will make for an enjoyable day in the outdoors. Children love playing in water and it will be a relaxing experience for their parents as well knowing their children are safe and having a good time.
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