Water Safety 101

Water activities can be fun, provide good exercise for children, and be a good source of recreation involving children and adults, but when there is a lack of supervision, being in an unsafe water environment or no safety gear being used, these factors can result in an unintentional drowning.

Active supervision is what is needed by a “Designated Adult” when young children are in tubs of water, on boats, in swimming pools, or near open bodies of water to help prevent an unintentional drowning.

Following are 4 tips to remember to ensure the “Designated Adult” has the appropriate skills needed when children are near or in water.

1. Be Responsible
   Provide constant supervision whenever children are near or in water. Do not engage in distracting behavior.
2. Know How to Swim
   Have appropriate swimming skills and, ideally, training on infant and child CPR.
3. Have Safety Gear Present
   You should have proper gear such as Personal Floation Devices (PFDs) approved by the U.S. Coast Guard for everyone on boats, near or in bodies of water, or participating in water sports or activities.
4. Call 9-1-1 in an Emergency
   If someone is in trouble, don’t wait to call 9-1-1.

Running Waters

Rivers and channels pose greater hazards, especially after heavy rainfall. Many people living near bodies of water often underestimate their dangers or the strength of the current. For example, a road covered with running water could sweep a motor vehicle far away. Never allow children or teenagers to play near water, particularly after rainfall when water levels are high, and currents are strong. Always remember: if there is no lifeguard on duty, it may not be a safe place to swim. Avoid entering or attempting to swim in such areas. Do not enter swift-moving waters to rescue someone. Instead, call 911 immediately. Even a gold-medal swimmer would struggle in strong currents.