Whether you are spending the day at the neighborhood pool or enjoying a weekend at the Jersey Shore, taking a few simple precautions can help keep everyone safe in and around water.
Never Leave Children Unattended
Drowning can happen quickly and quietly, often in less than a minute. Children should always be actively supervised when they are in or near water, even if they know how to swim. Avoid distractions like phones or conversations and designate a responsible adult to watch children at all times.
Learn to Swim
Swimming lessons are one of the most effective ways to reduce the risk of drowning. Whole lessons don’t make anyone “drown-proof,” they can help children and adults build confidence and develop essential water safety skills.
Even experienced swimmers should understand their limits and avoid swimming alone.
Wear Life Jackets When Appropriate
When boating, kayaking, paddleboarding or participating in other water sports, properly fitted U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets can save lives. Children should wear life jackets whenever they are on a boat or near open water, and adults should lead by example.
Inflatable toys and pool floats are fun but should never be considered safety devices.
Be Aware of Heat and Hydration
Spending hours in the sun can increase the risk of dehydration and heat-related illness, even while you’re in the water. Drink plenty of water throughout the day, take breaks in the shade, and remember to reapply sunscreen every two hours or after swimming.
Know the Sings of an Emergency
If someone appears to be struggling in the water, act immediately. Call 911 if a swimmer is unresponsive, has difficulty breathing, or has been submerged underwater. Once safely out of the water, begin CPR if you are trained to do so and follow the instructions of emergency responders until help arrives.
Learning CPR is another valuable way that parents, grandparents, and caregivers can prepare for emergencies.
Pool Safety at Home
If you have a backyard pool, consider these important safety measures:
- Install a four-sided fence with a self-closing, self-latching gate.
- Keep rescue equipment and a phone nearby.
- Remove toys from the pool area when swimming is finished to discourage children from entering the water unsupervised.
- Never allow diving in shallow water.
Make Safety Part of Every Summer Memory
Summer should be filled with laughter, family traditions and time spent outdoors. By practicing good water safety habits, families can enjoy everything the season has to offer while reducing the risk of preventable accidents.
At Saint Clare’s Health, we are committed to helping our community stay health and safe all year long. Whether it is preventing injuries through education or providing expert emergency care when it is needed most, we are honored to be your trusted healthcare partner.
We wish you and your family a safe, healthy, and enjoyable rest of the summer!