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Pool Safety for Kids: Lifeguard Insights to Keep Your Little Swimmers Safe
What can a lifeguard teach you about ensuring your kids are safe at the pool? I turned to my friend, Jake, who has spent over five years as a community pool lifeguard, and who experienced a “save” last summer—it’s lifeguard lingo for a life-saving rescue.
On a sweltering 90-degree day, amidst the bustling crowd, Jake spotted a child floating face down. In an instant, his training kicked in, and he sprang into action. He blew his whistle, rallied the other lifeguards, and dove in, successfully pulling the child to safety. Thankfully, the child was unharmed, but Jake returned home with valuable lessons on preventing such near-tragedies.
I asked him to share key insights for keeping our kids safe around water. His advice went beyond the typical pool safety tips we often hear. Here’s what this seasoned lifeguard wants you to know about ensuring your family’s safety in the water:
- Lifeguards Aren’t Babysitters.
We’re here for emergencies, but we must keep an eye on many kids at once—yours isn’t the only one in the water. - Sunscreen is Non-Negotiable!
Even on cloudy days, sunscreen is essential. Trust me; I’ve seen plenty of sunburns that could have been avoided. - Don’t Take It Personally If We Say Your Kid Isn’t Ready.
Many lifeguards also teach swimming lessons. We know what skills are needed for safety, so invest in swim lessons before diving into deeper waters. - We Enforce Rules, Not Make Them.
If we ask you not to throw your kid into the pool, don’t argue with us. Your kids notice how you respond; we want everyone to have fun, but safety comes first. - Rest Breaks are Important.
Kids tire quickly, and fatigue can lead to danger in the water. Swim for a while, then take a break to recharge. - No Running, Seriously!
Ever wonder why we shout “Walk!” so often? Slippery surfaces lead to a lot of accidents. We don’t say it for fun; we say it to prevent trips to the hospital. - Discuss Pool Safety Before You Go.
Have a chat with your kids about the rules, where they can and can’t go, and the importance of listening to lifeguards. Setting clear expectations can help prevent accidents. - Always Keep Track of Your Kids.
Remind them to inform you of their whereabouts, and stay vigilant. - Your Watchful Eye is Crucial.
This means no reading, no texting, and absolutely no napping! We’ve seen kids unintentionally wander into dangerous situations, and your attention can make all the difference.
I used to think lifeguards yelled “Walk!” just to hear themselves, but as I became friends with one, I understood the importance of every shout. Water can be fun, but it can quickly turn hazardous without proper supervision. This applies to adults too—if you can’t swim well, avoid the deep end!
One more thing: every summer, parents ask why water wings aren’t allowed. They give a false sense of security, making kids and parents complacent. These floaties aren’t life jackets and can fail, so it’s best to avoid them entirely.
To keep your kids safe, stay alert and engaged. Lifeguards are there to help, but they need you to do your part too. Drowning is the second leading cause of accidental death in children aged 5 to 24, which is a statistic that should make anyone pause. So, consider lifeguards part of your safety team; while they watch the pool, you must watch your children. Enjoy the summer, but take pool safety seriously.
For more on family planning and safety, check out our other blog posts, like this one about home insemination. And remember, for those on the journey to parenthood, Make A Mom is a fantastic resource, while Johns Hopkins provides excellent information on pregnancy and home insemination.
Summary:
When it comes to pool safety for kids, lifeguards like Jake stress the importance of vigilance, communication, and following rules. Kids must be supervised at all times, and preparation before hitting the water can prevent accidents. Enjoy the splashes and giggles, but keep safety at the forefront!