Summer is the perfect time for splashing in the pool, relaxing at the beach, or enjoying a day at the lake. While spending time in and around water is a favorite family activity, it's important to practice water safety to help prevent accidents and keep children safe.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), drowning is a leading cause of death in children. More children between the ages of 1-4 years die from drowning than any other cause of death in this age group. Many drowning incidents are preventable with proper supervision, safety measures, and preparation.
We're sharing practical water safety tips to help protect your family all summer long.
1. Install Layers of Protection Around and on Water
If you have a swimming pool, hot tub, pond, or any other body of water at home, limiting unsupervised access is one of the most effective ways to prevent drowning. Research shows that nearly 70% of toddler drownings occur during non-swim time, when children unexpectedly gain access to water. This highlights the importance of creating multiple layers of protection around pools and other bodies of water.
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends surrounding pools with a four-sided fence that is at least four feet tall and completely separates the pool from the home. Gates should be self-closing and self-latching, with the latch positioned out of a young child's reach.
In addition to fencing, some families also choose to install safety-rated pool covers designed to support weight and help reduce the risk of accidental entry into the water. It’s important to note that not all pool covers provide this level of protection, so always choose a cover that is specifically designed and tested for safety, and never rely on a cover as a substitute for supervision or barriers.
Additional safety measures include:
- Locking doors that lead directly to the pool area
- Removing toys from the pool after swimming to discourage children from reaching into the water
- Keeping rescue equipment nearby
Creating multiple layers of protection helps reduce the risk of children accessing water without an adult present.
2. Always Designate a Water Watcher
Active supervision is one of the most important ways to prevent drowning. Whenever children are in or near the water, assign one responsible adult to be the designated "Water Watcher." This person's only responsibility is watching the children. They should avoid distractions such as phones, conversations, and reading. If several adults are present, rotate the Water Watcher every 15 minutes to help maintain focus, especially during long pool days or family gatherings.
Although adults are often nearby, research shows that 88% of child drownings occur with at least one adult present. Assigning a dedicated Water Watcher helps ensure someone is actively supervising children instead of assuming someone else is watching.
The same level of supervision is important during bath time. Young children should never be left unattended in a bathtub, even for a moment, and caregivers should stay within arm's reach at all times.
Remember, drowning is often silent and can happen in less than a minute. Constant supervision is essential, even if lifeguards are on duty.
3. Choose the Right Flotation Devices
While inflatable arm bands, pool noodles, and floating toys can be fun, they should never be considered life-saving devices or substitutes for a properly fitted life jacket or active adult supervision. Because flotation devices like puddle jumpers may create a false sense of swimming ability in children who are not yet strong swimmers, close supervision remains essential at all times.
Children should wear a properly fitted, U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket whenever they are boating or swimming in open water such as lakes, rivers, or the ocean. Even strong swimmers can encounter unexpected currents, waves, or drop-offs.
Life jackets provide far more protection than inflatable toys and should always be used according to the manufacturer's weight and size recommendations.
4. Empty Standing Water After Every Use
Drowning hazards aren't limited to pools. Young children can drown in just a few inches of water, making it important to empty containers immediately after use.
Be sure to drain and store:
- Kiddie pools
- Buckets
- Coolers filled with melted ice
- Trash cans or containers that collect rainwater
If you have decorative ponds, fountains, or bird baths, supervise young children closely whenever they are nearby.
5. Enroll Children in Swim Lessons
Swimming lessons are an excellent way to help children become more comfortable and confident in the water. The AAP recommends that many children can begin formal swim lessons as early as age one, depending on their developmental readiness and comfort level. Keep in mind that children who know how to swim still require close supervision whenever they are around water.
Along with swimming skills, teach children important water safety rules such as:
- Always ask permission before entering the water
- Never swim alone
- Stay away from drains and pool filters
- Listen to lifeguards and posted safety signs
- Ensure adult supervision
6. Practice Extra Caution at Lakes, Rivers, and Beaches
Natural bodies of water present different risks than swimming pools. Strong currents, changing water depths, slippery rocks, waves, and limited visibility can all increase the chance of injury or drowning.
When visiting pools, lakes, rivers, or beaches:
- Swim in designated swimming areas
- Choose beaches with lifeguards on duty
- Check weather conditions before entering the water
- Keep young children within arm's reach
- Have children wear brightly colored swimsuits to improve visibility underwater Avoid colors that may blend in with the surrounding water, such as blues or greens
Never assume calm-looking water is safe. Conditions can change quickly.
7. Learn CPR
Knowing CPR can make a life-saving difference during a water emergency. Parents, grandparents, babysitters, and caregivers should consider becoming CPR certified so they are prepared to respond while waiting for emergency medical services. Many local hospitals, community centers, and organizations offer CPR certification classes throughout the year.
Enjoy a Safe Summer Around the Water
Summer memories are often made by the water. By combining active supervision, proper barriers, swim lessons, and appropriate safety equipment, families can greatly reduce the risk of drowning and enjoy the season with greater peace of mind.
Whether you're spending an afternoon in the backyard pool or planning a weekend by the water, taking a few extra precautions can help keep every splash safe.
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