Whether you recently had a swimming pool installed at home or plan to take the kids to the local water park frequently this summer, safety should remain at the forefront of your activities. Start an ongoing conversation about swimming pool safety with your young ones now so they’re ready to enjoy the water throughout the hottest months of the year. Here are a few tips to inspire your talks.

How to Keep Your Kids Safe at the Pool This Summer

1. Always Supervise Them 

Never let your children out of sight when they’re in the water, even if there are lifeguards present. Keep them within reach instead. If numerous children are swimming in the pool, consider using the Water Watcher card method with other parents. This concept, which designates “watchers” for 15-minute time frames, prevents distractions and ensures there are always eyes on your kids.

2. Keep Everyone in Designated Areas

Don’t let small children swim in the deep end, even if they’re wearing a floatation device. Keep everyone in the kiddie pools and shallow ends until they’re old enough to swim in deeper water safely and responsibly. If you’re working with a baby, introduce the child to the water at about 6 months old. Use waterproof diapers and change them often.

3. Make It Clear That Running Is Prohibited

Go over the water park or other community pool rules with your children before you start swimming. Emphasize that running is strictly prohibited, as sprinting around the pool can easily lead to tripping and falling in the water. Explain that proper pool etiquette is necessary not just for safety, but also so everyone has a good time.

4. Schedule Swim Lessons

Look for swim lessons in your area as soon as your children are old enough and express interest. They will learn the basics for staying afloat, including treading water, and may also learn about swimming in different bodies of water such as lakes or the ocean.

5. Use Public Pools With Good Reputations

Find water parks and public swimming areas in your neighborhood with reputations as pristine as their pool water. The best facilities adhere to all zoning guidelines, such as building fences at specified heights around the pool, and have qualified lifeguards who know CPR. They also have plenty of safety products within reach, such as U.S. Coast Guard-approved personal flotation devices.

Put these tips into practice at any of the pools and water parks within the Jacksonville Parks & Recreation Department in Pulaski County, AR. Water parks and related facilities are just some of the recreational options available through this department, so your family can have fun through the summer and beyond. Visit them online to learn more about their offerings, or call (501) 982-4171 to speak to a staff member. For the latest on water park season passes and upcoming events, like them on Facebook.