Posted on 05/05/2023
In addition to the preventive steps we've previously discussed in the earlier parts in this series (see Part 1 & 2), having a clearly defined family water activity policy is one method to help in decreasing the risks connected with drowning. You can apply these rules to guests at events you host if you have a backyard pool or if you live near a natural body of water. As with any policy, you should make sure it is understood, publicly posted (if necessary), regularly reviewed, and actively implemented. Before each swim, you should go over these guidelines with those in attendance as well as explain the penalties for breaking them. Additionally, be ready to enforce these safety rules.
Let's briefly go over some common water guidelines:
No Adults, No Swimming
Strict compliance with this policy is required. Your children should be aware that they must always be under your observation or awareness if they get anything other than their hands, feet, and faces wet. This should include bathing or taking a shower for small children. While you don't want kids to think that water always equals risk, they do need to be aware of the dangers associated with water. As their primary caregiver and protector, you can't offer assistance if you are unaware that they are engaging in a risky activity.
Use the Buddy Partner System
They should always use the buddy system when they are outside and especially when around water. This extra layer of safety can be lifesaving even when a trained lifeguard is on duty or a parent has taken over lifeguard duties. You will have a better chance of getting a speedy reaction in the event that a problem does develop if each child has a friend watching out for them in and around the pool and learns to quickly tell the lifeguard if there is an issue.
Act Responsibly
This is a general rule that may include - but is not limited to - avoiding pushing, running, or pulling anyone into the water. Everyone should stay out of any areas where a person might enter the water from a waterslide or diving board, and the lifeguard should be alerted whenever someone is ready to use those types of water entryways. The other adults present should agree to support the lifeguard's decisions and demand that children comply (and, of course, comply themselves), even if different lifeguards may have varying thresholds for what is considered risky vs. safe activity. Everyone must pause and turn to gaze whenever a lifeguard blows their whistle in order to understand what is being spoken.
Leave Immediately if Requested
Whether at a swimming pool or a lake/river/pond, a lifeguard may ask everyone to exit the water for a variety of reasons. If a lifeguard blows his or her whistle and indicates for everyone to exit the pool, such instructions must be complied with as soon as possible and in a safe manner. (This one may even merit a practice run.) If there is only one adult present, this may be particularly crucial. When you need to leave the area for needed breaks and you're the only adult around, you should demand that all kids get out of the pool and the immediately surrounding area until you permit them to resume water activities.
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