While swimming is one of the greatest things about Central Texas, water also presents one of the most dangerous settings for kids. Even your bathtub can be hazardous without constant supervision. In fact, drowning is the #1 accidental killer of infants and toddlers! And for older kids, it’s the second leading cause. Follow these life-saving steps to help keep kids safer, then scroll down for Additional Resources.
Swimming is both fun AND a life-saving skill. We recommend starting swim lessons as young as possible! However, it is never too late to enroll your kids, or yourself, in swim lessons. Don’t wait until summer to start swim lessons! ENROLL EARLY and be ready to swim when summer hits. There are many low-cost options available in the area.
At least one adult who is a strong swimmer should be designated as the official “Water Watcher” EVERY time that kids are around ANY water – no matter how shallow it is (bath tub or ocean), or where it is (backyard or the ocean), or how well you think your child can swim (beginner or advanced). The Water Watcher is responsible for staying focused on the kids the whole time. Do not become distracted by texts, social media, phone calls, earphones/music, reading, socializing, alcohol, or napping. If you use babysitters, confirm that they are strong swimmers, and insist that they closely supervise your kids every moment. With a sharp focus on the water and great communication, adults can work together to take turns being the one officially in charge! Practice “Reach Supervision” by staying within an arm’s length reach. And don’t rely on substitutes; the use of flotaties and inflatable toys cannot replace parental supervision!
Remember the 3 C’s: CHECK for signs of life. CALL 9-1-1 for help. COMPRESS the center of the chest hard and fast until help arrives.
Many of the nearly 300 kids under 5 years old who drown each year in backyard pools in the U.S. could be SAVED if homeowners completely fenced in pools. It’s also very important to install self-closing, self-latching devices on gates. Anyone who has cared for young kids knows how fast they can move, so install pool and gate alarms to alert you when kids go near the water.
Ensure all pools and spas – both on your property and any public or hotel pool you may visit – have compliant drain covers. By law, all public pools and spas must have drain grates/covers that meet safety standards to avoid fatal accidents. Teach kids to avoid drains. Powerful suction from a pool or spa drain can even trap an adult.
Colin’s Hope: Water Safety Resources
American Red Cross – Water Safety
National Safety Council – Drowning Prevention
