I Investigate Drownings — 10 Essential Water Safety Tips Everyone Should Know

As a professional who investigates drownings and a lifeguard with over 26 years of experience, I’ve witnessed how rapidly and quietly tragedies can occur in water. While there’s no shortage of articles reminding parents to keep an eye on their children, much of the advice can be impractical. Thus, I’ve compiled a practical list of ten strategies I employ to ensure my kids’ safety in and around water.

1: Safety Meetings

We begin every swim session with a safety briefing. It’s not just a formality; it’s an important discussion. My kids know to wait for my cues before jumping in, as we cover where they can swim, safe jumping techniques, and the rules they must follow. This practice cultivates respect for the water, blending safety with the fun of swimming.

2: Understanding Depths

My children are educated about water depths and how they relate to their own height. For instance, my 6-year-old understands that 4 feet of water is beyond his head, while my 8-year-old knows she needs to tread water at that same depth. This awareness empowers them to make informed choices.

3: Escaping a Grab

In a recent incident, I jumped fully clothed into a hotel pool to rescue two struggling children. I’ve taught my own kids how to escape if someone grabs them in distress: suck in air, duck under the water, and tuck away to push off. It’s vital they understand personal space too, as even adults can struggle in water.

4: Staying Focused

I encourage my kids to help keep me accountable for their safety. We’ve made it a practice to remind one another that constant supervision is crucial. To combat distractions, I use a reminder app that alerts me every minute to ensure I’m checking on them.

5: Scheduled Breaks

We plan swim sessions of about 30 minutes, always incorporating breaks. It’s essential for both me and my children to have time to rest. These breaks also serve as a moment to regroup and ensure everyone is safe.

6: Limited Trust

While family and friends may love my children, I only trust my husband and myself to supervise them in the water. If they swim elsewhere, they wear life jackets. I’m not willing to risk their safety in someone else’s care, no matter how well-intentioned.

7: Making Lifejackets Cool

We need to change the perception of lifejackets. I encourage my kids to see them as fun rather than a hindrance. When everyone wears life jackets, it can be enjoyable, and safety is prioritized.

8: Education is Key

My kids are aware of the signs of drowning and understand that even strong swimmers can be at risk. We talk about water safety and why certain activities, like breath-holding games, are dangerous. This knowledge fosters a healthy respect for water.

9: Recognizing Danger

Phrases like “Hey, watch this…” often signal risky behavior. I take these moments to discuss the importance of making safe decisions around water. My kids now alert me when they hear others using similar phrases, helping them develop a sense of caution.

10: Be Vigilant

I involve my children in safety monitoring. They are encouraged to watch out for one another and other kids. If they see someone underwater for too long, they know to count and alert an adult if necessary.

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In summary, creating a culture of water safety involves education, supervision, and communication. By implementing these practical strategies, parents can help their children enjoy water activities while minimizing risks.

Keyphrase: Water Safety for Kids
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