Though it’s been so rainy here lately you could almost go boating in your back yard, it IS summer, and we know that hot days will return and the kids (and grownups!) will want to go to the pool to cool down.

Of course, you want your family to be safe, so here are a few things to keep in mind when you’re swimming this summer.

• Make sure your children learn how to swim, but don’t become overconfident of their abilities.  The American Academy of Pediatrics’ (AAP) recommendation is that children age 4 and older should have formal swim lessons.  (See their specific advice here.)  Those at highest risk of drowning are toddlers and teenaged boys.
• Don’t dive into anything shallow, or where you can’t see the bottom.  This includes ponds and creeks, but also pools that have become cloudy.  Spinal cord or other serious injuries can result.
• Follow the rules set by lifeguards.  It’s their job to protect your safety while you have fun with your friends.
• Never allow any child to swim unsupervised.  A responsible adult should always be present, even if it’s just at a wading pool.  Don’t leave a wading pool with water in it.
• If you have an in-ground or above-ground pool, make sure it’s properly fenced and that the gate is locked.  No matter how much you tell your children not to go into the pool area alone, it can be very tempting!

That AAP article cited above contains good information about lifejackets, boating, lakes, and piers.  It also spells out more about fencing, swim lessons for children younger than 4, and other water safety specifics.  Check it out.

Stay cool this summer, and be safe!

Joel, age 10

© 2013, Melissa Bane Sevier