SPLASH INTO SUMMER
Summer weather is finally here, and that means it's time to play outside. For many families, summer in Minnesota consists of special time in and around water. Lakes, beaches and pools are hot commodities once the temperatures begin to rise. How do you keep your family safe around water while still having fun?
A first basic rule is to always be within sight and sound of your child when around water. Even as your child becomes comfortable in shallow water, stay within reaching distance of him. It only takes a split second for him to slip on a rock or lose his balance.
Don't assume that someone is watching. When in a group, make sure that one or more adults are responsible for keeping their eyes at all times on the children who are in or near the water.
ALWAYS have your child wear a life jacket when around large bodies of water - in lakes, on boats, etc. Remember that water wings are not life preservers. The type that attach only to the child's arms will not keep the child's face and airways above water. Even the type that circles the chest should only be used when an adult is actively supervising the child and it should not be substituted for a life jacket.
Avoid distractions while you are responsible for children who are with you near water. Cell phones or conversations with friends can easily take away your focus.
Don't assume that if a child is splashing around in the water that he is just having fun. He may be struggling to keep his balance or to touch the bottom. And know also that drowning can be silent. Children count on adults to closely supervise them in the water. We can't let them down.
Swimming lessons can be invaluable for children, even as young as six months old.
In lessons children are taught to respect water. They learn that water can be stronger than they are. They also learn things like safety flips that encourage children to flip onto their backs in the water. The back is the safest position in the water. Children who use goggles should occasionally be encouraged to swim without goggles. That will give them the confidence that they can still swim successfully even if they don't have goggles on. It is also a good idea to let a child swim occasionally dressed in a t-shirt, water shoes and even a sweatshirt. This practice lets them know that if they ever fall into water with their clothes on, they won't need to panic. These methods of teaching water safety to children at a young age will further their respect for water and make them aware of their surroundings.
Children who learn water safety can look forward to a lifetime of fun around the water. We hope you and your family enjoy many types of water sports this summer!