The 5 Non-Negotiable Water Safety Rules for Every Parent

1. Always Practice "Touch Supervision"

Drownings can happen silently and in seconds. The single most effective safety measure is to always stay within arm's reach of your child. Even if they are "water-safe" or can swim, constant, undistracted supervision is the golden rule.

2. Ditch the "Puddle Jumpers" and Inflatables

While popular, floaties and puddle jumpers give children (and parents) a false sense of security. They position a child in an upright, vertical posture, which is the opposite of the life-saving horizontal posture needed for floating and swimming. They are not a substitute for supervision or a life jacket.

3. Practice Skills at Home

Make water safety a normal part of your routine. During bath time, practice pouring water over their head, getting their face wet, and back floating. These small, consistent practices in a controlled environment build comfort and reinforce skills learned in lessons.

4. Set Clear Rules for Everyone

Water safety is a team effort. Ensure that babysitters, grandparents, and family members all understand and agree to enforce the same rules: no running near the pool, no swimming without an adult, etc. Consistency is key.

5. Create Layers of Protection

Lessons are one crucial layer of protection, but they should not be the only one. For home pools, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends multiple layers, including a four-sided isolation fence with a self-latching gate, door alarms, and pool alarms.

Ready to Add the Most Important Layer of Protection?

These tips are essential for creating a safe environment. The final piece of the puzzle is giving your child the life-saving skills they need to be their own first responder.