That means it’s a good time to review this water safety checklist and take action now to keep you and your loved ones safe this summer.
Lessons might seem obvious, but if you are going to spend time in or around the water, you should know how to swim. Sign your children up for Red Cross, YMCA, or private swim lessons offered in your area. Adult swim lessons are also available. And if you’re around water with non-swimmers, make sure you have life jackets available to ensure everyone’s safety.
When supervising children (and even adults), make sure everyone is aware of and follows the safety rules in place. Remind children not to run on deck, enter the water by themselves, or be around the water without adult supervision. Never swim alone and have rescue gear and first aid equipment nearby.
Never leave children unattended. Make sure an adult is supervising all activity in or around the water at all times. Having more than one adult around allows you to take breaks.
Alcohol and water don’t mix. Drinking while boating or around water increases your risk of injury or drowning. And drinking alcohol in the summer heat can lead to dehydration that increases your risk of heatstroke.
If someone is injured in your pool, you’re likely liable for harm whether or not you permitted them to use your pool. Some necessary steps to protect yourself are to cover any pool or hot tub when not in use, surround pool areas with fencing to keep uninvited guests out and invest in a pool alarm that signals when someone has entered the pool.
If your child has a water-based play date with a friend, talk with the other parents beforehand. Make sure you’re all on the same page regarding water safety. Let them know your child’s swimming skills, comfort around water, and what precautions you would like to make sure are taken to ensure safety.
Using a life jacket when around water reduces your risk of drowning by 50%. Ensure you have a life jacket for everyone in your party and that the jackets can be fitted to the correct size.
A hot summer day requires hydration, even if you’re staying cool in the pool. Drink plenty of water throughout the day and pack some snacks to keep energy levels up and alertness high.
Skin cancer is now the most common cancer diagnosis in the United States, with 1 in 5 adults developing skin cancer before the age of 70. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends using a water-resistant sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher.
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