What to do to Stay Safe Around Water this Summer at the Pool or Beach

As families converge on aquatic centers, pools, splash pads, waterparks and open bodies of water for recreational water activities this summer, it is vital to ensure safety is a priority for all people.

Here are important tips and reminders for parents and caregivers about safer water practices. Keep these six water safety tips in mind:

1. Provide Constant Adult Supervision
Actively supervise children and non-swimmers around the water, even when lifeguards are present. Don’t just drop kids off. Avoid distracting activities such as checking email or social media.

2. Learn to Swim
No matter your age, learning to swim is one of the best ways to be safer in and around the water.

3. Look for Lifeguards
Swim in designated areas supervised by lifeguards.

4. Swim with a Buddy
Do not allow anyone to swim alone. Even at a public pool or a lifeguarded beach, use the buddy system.

5. Wear A Life Jacket
Adults and kids should always wear a properly-fitted U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket while boating. Non-swimmers and inexperienced swimmers should also always wear a life jacket when in and around the water. Inflatable toys can be fun but are not a substitute for U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets.

6. Learn CPR
Learn how to prevent and respond to emergencies by learning CPR.