Summer is the perfect time for families to dive into fun.
But before the cannonballs, it’s important to know how to keep
kids safe. Here’s how to make a splash—safely!
Summer is here, and that means swimsuits, sunblock, and endless opportunities for kids to make memories in the water. Whether it’s at the neighborhood pool, one of our local lakes, or your own backyard, water play is a summertime staple. But while water can be a source of great fun, it also comes with serious risks if proper precautions aren’t taken. With just a few simple tips and habits, you can keep swimmers safe while they’re making waves.
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Photograph courtesy of WildWater
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Photographs by Stephanie Gibson Lepore
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Photographs by Stephanie Gibson Lepore
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Photographs by Stephanie Gibson Lepore
1. Eyes on the Water—Always!
The golden rule of water safety: active supervision. Whether your child is just dipping their toes or practicing underwater somersaults, they need an adult watching them at all times. That means undistracted supervision—no scrolling, texting, or flipping through your fiction thriller. If you’re at a party or large gathering, assign a designated “water watcher.” Pass around a physical object—like a fun “lifeguard” lanyard or diving stick—every 15 minutes so everyone gets a break but water play stays covered.
2. Know Swimmers’ Skill Levels
Every kid is different when it comes to water confidence. Some are fearless fish, while others are more hesitant. Enrolling your child in swim lessons is one of the best things you can do for their safety. Look for programs that teach not only swimming strokes, but also floating, treading water, and basic rescue techniques. The American Red Cross recommends that all family members learn basic water skills such as entering water above their head then returning to the surface; floating or treading water for one minute; turning over and around in the water; swimming at least 25 yards; and exiting the water. Remember: Floaties, water wings, puddle jumpers, and inflatable toys are not life-saving devices. If your child isn’t a strong swimmer, a properly fitting U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket is the way to go—especially in open water likes lakes and the Gulf.
3. Pool Safety Starts at Home
If you have a backyard pool, you have a personal summer paradise—and a major safety responsibility. Make sure your pool has a four-sided fence with a self-latching gate. Pool alarms and safety covers are also great tools to add layers of protection. Remove toys from the water when not in use to keep curious kids from reaching in. And if your child is missing, always check the water first—it can save precious time.
4. Beach and Lake Days
Open water is unpredictable. Currents, tides, and drop-offs can be tricky even for experienced swimmers. Teach kids to stay close to shore and always swim with a buddy. Pay attention to warning flags, signs, and lifeguard instructions. If you’re visiting a lake or river, scan for hidden hazards like rocks, sticks, and uneven footing before letting kids jump in. Tip: Flip-flops are cute, but water shoes are superheroes when it comes to protecting little feet from sharp surprises.
5. Sun Smarts and Hydration
Don’t forget that safety goes beyond just what’s in the water. Long days in the sun mean staying hydrated and protecting skin. Pack a cooler with water and snacks, and reapply sunscreen every two hours (and after each splash session!). Dehydration and sunburn can sneak up on kids quickly—especially when they’re too busy having fun to notice. Make water breaks and shade time a regular part of the play plan.
6. CPR: A Skill Every Parent Should Have
Accidents can happen even with the best precautions. Learning CPR could save a life. Local hospitals, fire departments, and community centers often offer quick, family-focused CPR training sessions. It’s a skill every caregiver should have in their safety toolbox.
Water fun is one of the best parts of summer, and with the right precautions, it can also be one of the safest. Equip your kids with the skills, gear, and guidance they need, and you’ll be setting the stage for a summer full of safe splashes and sunny smiles.