As we head into the heart of summer, many families are spending more time around pools, lakes, and beaches. While water play is a great way to stay active and cool, it also comes with serious risks—especially for young children.
Drowning is the leading cause of accidental death for children ages 1 to 4, and it’s a danger that can strike in seconds, often silently. But with a few simple precautions, many of these tragedies are entirely preventable.
Top 6 Swim Safety Tips for Families
1. Always Keep a Close Eye
Designate a responsible adult as a “water watcher” whenever children are in or near water. This person should be within arm’s reach of younger children and free from distractions like phones or books.
2. Enroll in Swim Lessons Early
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends starting swim lessons around age 1. Lessons build essential water survival skills, especially for children who live near pools, lakes, or coastlines.
3. Use Proper Life Jackets
For non-swimmers or kids around open water, choose U.S. Coast Guard–approved life jackets. Avoid relying on floaties or inflatable toys—they give a false sense of security and can slip off easily.
4. Secure Your Home Pool
If you own a pool, install a four-sided fence with a self-latching gate at least 4 feet high. Remove toys from the water after use so kids aren’t tempted to reach in unsupervised.
5. Teach Kids to Ask Permission
Even confident swimmers should be taught to always ask an adult before entering any water. Consistency builds habits that can save lives.
6. Learn CPR
In the event of a drowning incident, bystander CPR can double or triple a child’s chance of survival. Every caregiver should be trained—it could save a life.
Did You Know?
Black, Latino, and Native American children are at significantly higher risk of drowning—due in part to historic exclusion from public pools, lack of access to swim lessons, and generational fear of water.
To understand the history behind these disparities—and what we can all do to change the narrative—watch our latest YouTube video:
Dr. Lavanya Sithanandam
Medical Director, Park Pediatrics
