Water Safety: Essential Tips to Keep Your Kids Safe

WATER SAFETY: essential tips for children. Water activities are fun and memorable experiences however, parents must prioritise the safety of their children while near any body of water. Drowning incidents can occur quickly and silently, making it vital for parents to be well-informed and proactive in preventing such accidents.

One of the most critical safety rules is to never leave children unattended near water. Whether it’s a pool, beach, lake, or bath, constant supervision is essential. Even shallow water can pose a risk, and accidents can occur within seconds. Always stay within arm’s reach of children, and if you need to step away, ensure another responsible adult takes over the supervision.

Disposable nappies

When around water, it is important not to leave toddlers wearing disposable nappies (diapers). These nappies can become heavy when soaked, causing toddlers to sink if they fall into the water. Instead, consider using swim-specific nappies or pull-ups designed for water activities. These alternatives do not absorb water and provide a safer option for toddlers.

CPR

Parents should evaluate their swimming abilities. If you are not a confident swimmer, it is recommended to take swimming lessons to ensure you can respond effectively if your child gets into difficulty in the water. Basic knowledge of water safety, rescue techniques, and CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) can be invaluable in case of an emergency.

While inflatable armbands and other flotation devices can provide some assistance in the water, they should never be solely relied upon to keep children safe. These devices can deflate or slip off, and children can still get into dangerous situations even while wearing them. Always maintain constant supervision regardless of any flotation devices being used.

Children are curious and unpredictable, and it is crucial never to underestimate their ability to access water hazards. Toddlers are particularly vulnerable due to their lack of understanding and impulse control. Secure pools with childproof barriers, lock gates and remove any objects that could potentially allow them to climb over barriers.

Swimming lessons

Swimming lessons are not only enjoyable but can also be lifesaving. Enroll your child in swimming lessons as early as possible. Swimming skills can instill confidence in the water, teach children how to stay afloat, and enable them to handle emergencies better. However, it’s important to remember that even skilled swimmers can still be at risk, so vigilance is crucial regardless of their swimming abilities.

112

In case of an emergency in Spain, the designated emergency services number is 112. It is essential for parents and caregivers to be aware of this number and have it readily available. Programming it into your phone or teaching older children how to dial it can save precious time in case of an emergency near water.

En todos los puestos de vigilancia en 🏖️playas del #PlanCopla ondea la bandera verde excepto en Matalentisco #Águilas, que ondea la bandera amarilla.
La información actualizada del estado de las playas en:

▶️https://t.co/OByz6CfRau pic.twitter.com/I69pXS7reY

— 112 Región de Murcia (@112rmurcia) July 2, 2023

When selecting swimming suits for your children, opt for bright and easily visible colours. Brightly coloured swimsuits make it easier to spot your child in crowded pools or busy beach areas, increasing their visibility in the water. Avoid choosing swimming suits in shades of blue or grey, as these colours can blend with the water, making it harder to spot your child from a distance. By selecting vibrant colours, you can enhance their visibility and ensure a quick response if they need assistance.

https://www.112rmurcia.es/