During the summer, few activities are better than splashing around a pool or lounging on a beach. Families with young children also enjoy playing in the water on hot days. Unfortunately, not paying close attention to dangers can send parents and their children to a local urgent care or emergency room. Keep your kids safe this summer by following these water safety tips. 

How to Protect Your Children While Playing in Water

1. Enroll Your Child in Swim Lessons

Anyone can splash around in a small amount of water and have fun. However, if you're taking your child to a pool or a beach where they could get into waters that rise above their knees, it's best to ensure they know how to maneuver in the water. One of the best ways to keep your child safe in a pool is to enroll them in swimming lessons. Formal classes will equip them with fundamental safety lessons, such as paddling, floating, and not panicking if they find themselves in deep water. 

2. Wear Life Jackets

Though swim lessons will give your child the confidence and skills to stay safe while swimming, unfortunate accidents could still occur. However, you can increase your child's safety by equipping them with life jackets. Even if your child knows how to swim, the gear will give them added protection, whether swimming, playing on docks, using an inner tube on a lake, or riding on a boat. 

3. Know What to Do in an Emergency

If an incident occurs on the water, it's best to know how to handle it to reduce the risk of injury or illness. For instance, you could learn first aid and CPR to help anyone who hurts themselves or inhales water while swimming. Most people carry cellphones with them during family activities. However, if you leave your phone at home to protect it from water damage or theft, always know where to find the closest phone near your destination so you can call for help if necessary. Always call 911 for an ambulance to take the injured person to the nearest emergency room during a dire situation. 

If you need a state-of-the-art emergency room in Campbellsville, KY, this summer, turn to Taylor Regional Hospital. For over 50 years, this facility and its team of experienced physicians and staff have helped patients of all ages. Their convenient emergency room is available 24 hours a day, but patients can also receive additional services, like cancer care, neurology, wound care, and rehabilitation services. They also offer walk-in clinic services for non-emergencies. Schedule an appointment by calling (270) 465-3561 or visit them online for more information about their services.