It’s time to kick off family time with a splash! Swimming is an excellent way to keep you and your family active while also having fun! However, it’s important to take the necessary precautions to make sure everyone stays safe while enjoying time in the water.

From wearing the right gear and following the pool rules to knowing what to do in an emergency, here are six swimming pool safety tips that will help keep you and your family safe while having fun!

 

1. Walk, Don’t Run

We’ve all heard it said before, but it’s no less true now than it was then! The deck of a pool can be slippery thanks to people splashing around and exiting the water. Running on the wet surface can cause you to tripーboth onto the deck and into the water. To avoid any unnecessary slips and falls, be sure to walk when by the pool and when on any surface with wet feet.

 

2. Wear the Right Gear

A swimsuit isn’t the only thing you want to wear in the swimming pool. Equipping yourself and your family with the proper swimming gear can help keep everyone safe while having fun in the water.

Floaties or other floatation devices can allow those who struggle with swimming to still safely enjoy splashing around the pool, and wearing goggles protects your eyes from possibly becoming dry or irritated! Likewise, wearing earplugs reduces the risk of getting an ear infection from leftover water in your ears.

 

3. Be Aware of Your Own Skill Level

Before jumping into any situation, it’s important to understand where your own skill level is. If you or a family member are not very experienced at swimming yet, it’s important not to jump straight into the deep end to start with. Take your time to safely learn the skills needed to be independent in the water.

The best way to improve your swimming skills at any age is with swim lessons. Group or private swim classes will give you and your family the opportunity to learn basic swim skills, swimming safety, and confidence in the water.

 

4. Follow Pool Rules

Rules like "no diving in shallow water" and "no running" exist because people have been hurt by ignoring them. Before letting kids loose, take a moment to review the posted rules together. This is also a good opportunity to point out where the lifeguard station is and explain what it's for.

If there is no lifeguard on duty, designate someone in your group to take on a similar watchful role and make sure everyone knows who that is.

 

5. Keep an Eye on Your Surroundings

Keep an eye out for other swimmers and be mindful of their movements, especially if you plan on jumping into the water. If you have small children with you, be sure they are supervised by a skilled swimmer at all times and that they remain in areas appropriate for their skill level.

 

6. Know How to Respond to an Emergency

While we all do our best to prevent them, sometimes emergency situations happen. Knowing how to respond if they do can make all the difference.

Before stepping into the pool, take note of where safety equipment—such as floatation devices—are stored and where the lifeguards are located. Should a situation arise, it is again important to be aware of your own skill level. If you are untrained and see someone who needs help, don’t put yourself in danger too. Instead, alert the lifeguard or someone else with the ability to help.

To be better prepared for emergency situations, consider seeking out training in emergency practices such as CPR.

 

Swimming is a fun activity the whole family can enjoyーand with these helpful swimming pool safety tips, you’re sure to have a blast and keep your loved ones happy and healthy! Stop by your local pool to make a splash, enjoy a day of family fun, or sign up for swim lessons!

 

The Lafayette Family YMCA is a community dedicated to healthy living and social responsibility. For more fitness tips and to stay up to date about YMCA events, connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Instagram, or visit our website here.