Water Safety for Kids

drkurowski
Jun 16
3 min read

Child swimming, water safety this summer — Water safety to keep your kids safe while swimming this summer!

💧 Water Safety for Kids this Summer: What Every Parent Needs to Know This Summer

Whether you’re planning a beach vacation or spending weekends at the neighborhood pool, water can be wonderful—but it also deserves our respect. As a mom, my son almost drowned in front of me and it was the scariest moment of my life, thankfully, I was right there to stop it, but I'll never forget it. It can happen to anyone at any time but with some basic precautions we can keep our little ones safe.

🛟 Drowning Happens Fast—and Quietly

Drowning is the leading cause of injury-related death in children ages 1–4 years old at about 900 per year (kids). Nearly half of all drownings happen in this age group but the next biggest group is the teenagers ages 15-19. It can happen in just 30 seconds. Unlike the movies, there’s no splashing or yelling. It’s often silent and quick. (In the case of my son, he didn't even try to move himself from a face down position).

🚨 The Golden Rules of Water Safety

1. Always Watch—Really Watch

Designate a "Water Watcher" at all times.
This adult should put their phone down, not be reading or chatting, and keep eyes on the kids—especially non-swimmers.
Importantly in those that are not good at swimming, that person should be within arms reach at all times.

2. Teach Kids to Swim Early

Starting formal swim lessons as early as age 1 can reduce the risk of drowning by over 80%.
Until your child is a strong swimmer, stay within arm’s reach, even if they’re wearing floaties. Yes, you can still get into trouble with floaties.

3. Skip the Floaties (But Use Coast Guard-Approved Life Jackets)

Arm floaties and pool noodles can give a false sense of security.
Instead, choose properly fitted, Coast Guard-approved life vests—especially for boating or lakes.

4. Fencing Saves Lives

If you have a pool at home, it should be fenced on all four sides with a self-latching, self-closing gate. Watch out for people who come to your home to work on the pool and make sure they close the gate after they leave. Many times, kids wander in after someone outside of the family leaves the pool area and doesn't latch a gate.
Remove toys from the pool area when not in use so kids aren’t tempted to reach for them.

5. Infants under age 1 are more likely to drown in the bathtub.

🧽 Even Small Amounts of Water Can Be Dangerous

It’s not just the pool or lake. Young children can drown in as little as 1–2 inches of water:

Bathtubs
Buckets
Kiddie pools

Never leave little ones alone near any water source, even for a second.

🐠 Extra Tips for Natural Bodies of Water

Lakes and oceans can have currents, drop-offs, and poor visibility.
Always swim where lifeguards are present when possible.
Teach older kids how to call for help, float on their backs, and stay calm in the water.

Water time can be some of the best time—just make it's a safe time, too. If you have questions about swim lessons, readiness, or water safety gear, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re here to help your family have a healthy, happy, and safe summer with water safety for our kids.

🩱☀️🌊