May is Water Safety Month. Because over 100,000 people drown each year around the world, it’s best to make sure you are doing everything you can so that your family and loved ones are safe around water. Keeping an eye on kids who are around water is always advised, no matter what time of year it is. Designating one person in particular to keep a close eye on kids during pool-related activities is a great way to know that at least one person is always watching. A few additional ideas to think about for water safety include:
- Make sure pools have secure fences around them and consider installing an alarm if the latched gate is opened.
- Never prop open the gate to a pool area.
- Always have a phone outside for emergencies and don’t ever go back in the house to answer a call.
- Learn CPR and post the steps in case others aren’t sure how to perform the lifesaving procedure.
- Don’t leave toys loose around the pool area in case they get blown into the pool; children may want to go in the pool to play with them.
- Do not use inflatable arm devices (floaties) or other inflatable devices in place of supervision.
- Weak or non-swimmers should wear U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets anytime they’re around water.
- Teach children water safety and swimming skills as early as possible.
- Always have safety devices on hand like a ring buoy, life jackets, rope, or pole that can be used to help a person who’s in trouble.
- Learn how to tell if a swimmer is in distress or drowning. They may not be splashing around yelling for help.
We want you and your family to safe around water. Water safety should be a priority not only this month, but every month of the year.
