With Spring Break on the horizon, many families take advantage of this time to travel to beaches, pools and water parks. Florida is known for its warm climate, sunny days and beautiful waterways, which make it the perfect setting for water activities. With so many water-based adventures available, it is important to make water safety a top priority.
Always closely supervise children around water, even when lifeguards are present. It’s important to put away distractions such as books and cell phones.
Here are some water safety tips:
- Follow all safety procedures at pools and other swimming areas.
- Designate a responsible adult as the “water watcher” to actively watch all children in the water.
- Never leave children unattended near any body of water.
- Apply sunscreen to protect your skin against ultraviolet rays and drink water to prevent dehydration.
- Take a CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) course to learn lifesaving skills.
- Check local weather and water conditions before heading out, especially when visiting the beach.
- Know your child’s limits. Never push beyond their swimming abilities and encourage regular breaks.
- Enroll your child in swimming lessons.
- Talk with your child about water safety.
- Read them a book that conveys how to be safe near water, like Stewie the Duck Learns to Swim by Kimberly Leonard and Lawrence Shapiro.
Stay alert and prepared. By taking these precautions, you can help ensure an enjoyable Spring Break experience and a safe return to the classroom.
For more information on safety tips, visit the following programs: the Florida Department of Children and Families water safety program and the Florida Department of Health “Water Safety Is Everyone’s Responsibility” initiative.