A child of any age will never be completely “drownproof” or “watersafe,” however we can teach our children and families to be safer around the water. After working with families for so many years, we believe parents/caregivers have many misconceptions about drowning and about what it takes to keep it from happening. They think it only happens to families who “allow their children to wander and just don’t care,” but that’s just not the case. A drowning can happen quickly and quietly, and it can happen to anyone. Many parents would be surprised to find out that most drownings of young children occur in backyard pools and that it often happens during a time when a child is in the care of one or both parents. Most young children who have drowned had been missing for less than five minutes when the tragedy occurred. According to the Centers of Disease Control, drowning is responsible for more deaths among children 1-4 than any other cause except congenital anomalies (birth defects). With these statistics, parents need to do everything they can to help their children become safer around the water. Water safety includes multiple areas of vigilance and preparedness.

Water Safety Tips:

1. Learn to Swim
2. Watch Your Kids Around Water
3. Safeguard Water
4. Respect Open Water

Swim lessons save lives. Even toddlers can learn basic swimming skills that they can use if they ever end up in the water. The American Academy of Pediatrics has recently updated their drowning prevention position statement to state, “evidence suggests that many children older than 1 year will benefit from swim lessons.” And a good swim program will always teach safer behaviors for children and families around the pool. However, even children with excellent swimming skills need the watchful eye of an adult to help keep them safer around the water.

Aquatic instruction is an ongoing process that should continue long term throughout childhood to maximize the child’s learning of proper swimming techniques and respect for the water.

To find a swim school near you visit: https://www.usswimschools.org/find-a-school/