The weather is hot and pools, lakes, oceans, rivers and other bodies of water are calling! While swimming can be very enjoyable, it’s important to remind everyone of the importance of water safety. Phones Down, Eyes UpTM, while at the pool, lakefront or ocean. Checking your phone may seem like a quick task, but it can quickly turn into a major distraction with major consequences. The Y wants to remind all parents and caregivers that your eyes can save lives.
We’re also sharing these six tips on how children can stay safe in and around the water.
Tip # 1: Make sure children know to always ask permission. Teach your children the importance of asking permission before going in or near the water.
Tip # 2: Never swim alone without a water watcher. When children are swimming, make sure they are actively supervised at all times. Teach your children that they should only swim in locations where a lifeguard is on duty, or where a responsible adult agrees to watch the children in the water without distractions.
Tip # 3: Supervise your children whenever they’re in or near water. Whether it’s bath time or taking a dip in a pool or waterfront, make sure your children are within arm’s reach at all times.
Tip # 4: Don’t engage in breath holding activities. Both adults and children should not hold their breath for a prolonged amount of time while swimming, as this can be dangerous.
Tip # 5: Wear a life jacket. Inexperienced or non-swimmers should always wear a Coast Guard-approved life jacket while in or around the water.
Tip # 6: Don’t jump in the water to save a friend who is struggling in deep water. If an adult or child finds their friend in deep water unexpectedly, their natural reaction may be to jump in the water to try and save them. Even if they are a great swimmer, a panicked person will overpower them, pulling the rescuer underwater. The “reach, throw, don’t go” concept uses a long object to reach for the swimmer and pull them to safety, without compromising the safety of the rescuer.
To learn more about water safety and the Regional YMCA’s swim programs, please contact us at 203.775.4444 or visit regionalymca.org.
