As summer temperatures rise in Ohio, families head outdoors for swimming, boating, and playing near water. While these activities are great for exercise and making memories, they also come with risks. June, a peak time for water-related activities, is the perfect month to emphasize the importance of water safety for families. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), drowning is a leading cause of unintentional death among children aged 1–14.
Taking proactive measures can significantly reduce the risk of water-related injuries and ensure your family has a safe and enjoyable summer.
Understanding the Risks
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Drowning can happen in seconds and is often silent. It doesn’t always involve loud splashing or yelling.
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Children can drown in as little as one inch of water—meaning bathtubs, kiddie pools, and even buckets can pose risks.
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Teens are more likely to drown in natural water like lakes and rivers, especially when unsupervised.
Essential Water Safety Tips for Families
1. Supervise Constantly
Always keep your eyes on children near water—no multitasking, phone use, or distractions. Assign a designated “Water Watcher” during gatherings, rotating every 15–20 minutes.
2. Enforce the Use of Life Jackets
Children and inexperienced swimmers should wear U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets when in or around open water, such as lakes or rivers. Floaties and inflatable toys do not replace safety gear.
3. Install Pool Safety Barriers
If you have a pool at home:
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Install a four-sided fence at least four feet high.
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Use self-closing, self-latching gates.
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Install door alarms or pool covers for added protection.
4. Learn CPR
Immediate CPR can save lives in drowning emergencies. Take a CPR class through the American Red Cross or a local organization so you’re prepared.
5. Educate Your Children
Teach kids early water rules, like:
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No running near pools.
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Always swim with a buddy.
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Never enter water without an adult present.
6. Avoid Alcohol Near Water
Adults supervising children or operating boats should avoid alcohol. Impaired judgment can lead to slow reaction times and poor decision-making.
Extra Precautions for Specific Scenarios
Boating Safety
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Always use proper life vests.
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Keep emergency equipment onboard, including flotation devices and a first-aid kit.
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Check weather forecasts before heading out.
Beach and Lake Safety
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Swim only in designated areas with lifeguards.
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Teach children to recognize rip currents and how to escape them (swimming parallel to the shore).
Home Water Safety
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Drain kiddie pools immediately after use.
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Keep bathroom doors closed and toilet lids shut to prevent curious toddlers from falling in.
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Never leave young children unattended in the bathtub—even for a second.
Water Safety and Children with Special Needs
Children with autism or developmental delays are at a significantly higher risk of drowning. Extra precautions may include:
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Specialized swim lessons.
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Increased supervision.
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Visual cues and water boundary training.
When to Start Swim Lessons?
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends starting swim lessons as early as age one. Early education can reduce drowning risks, especially in families with home pools or regular water exposure.
Emergency Preparedness
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Keep rescue equipment nearby (e.g., life rings, reaching poles).
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Post emergency numbers and address information clearly in your pool area.
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Teach older kids and teens basic water rescue techniques, but always instruct them not to enter water to rescue someone—get help or use flotation.
The Takeaway
Water activities offer fun, exercise, and relief from summer heat—but they require diligence. By following these family water safety tips, you can help prevent drowning and ensure a fun, secure experience for everyone. Always supervise, educate, and prepare. Safety isn’t about taking the fun out of summer—it’s about making sure the fun continues.
Citation:
American Red Cross. (n.d.). Water Safety Tips. Retrieved from https://www.redcross.org/get-help/how-to-prepare-for-emergencies/types-of-emergencies/water-safety.html
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2022). Drowning Prevention. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/drowning/index.html
Disclaimer: Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized medical advice and support regarding your family’s health and safety.