Devices: ABCD's of Water Safety

As summer approaches, water safety becomes a growing concern for parents of young children. We all want our children to be safe and have fun in the water! While it can be intimidating to read all the facts about children and drowning, Swim Kids Waco is committed to equipping families with the tools needed for creating a safe environment around the water, whether you’re at home or on vacation. Our new blog series will teach you the ABCD’s of Water Safety.

D is for Devices

When it comes to devices, there’s a few simple Do’s and Don’ts to follow.

DO

  • Keep these items near the pool - even a child can use them to help someone who is drowning!

    • Pole - for someone to grab if they need pulled back to the edge of the pool

    • Ring tube - can be tossed out to help someone struggling in the middle of the pool

    • Cell phone - to call 9-1-1 in case of an emergency

  • ALWAYS wear life jackets in the open water - even teens and adults

  • Let your child have as much time as possible withOUT a floatation device while in the pool. (More to come about puddle jumpers and floaties like that.) Kids need time to practice REAL swimming skills without a floaty of any kind while they have focused supervision.

DON’T

  • Have a screen in front of you when you are supervising children in the water. Put the screens away to stay focused! (Again, it is wise to have a phone close by in case it’s needed to call 9-1-1. Just keep it out of your hands so that you’re not tempted with distractions.)

Did you miss any of our previous ABCD’s of Water Safety? Click on these links to learn more:

A is for Adult Supervision

B is for Barriers & Boundaries

C is for Classes