Summer adventures are right around the corner and one of the best parts of June and July is cooling down with friends. Whether you are spending time at a creek, lake, river, ocean or pool, a few precautions can ensure everyone has a fun and safe time. Get ready to splash into summer by brushing up on basic summer water safety.
SWIM LESSONS
For inexperienced swimmers, taking a few swim lessons can result in life-saving skills. Even experienced swimmers can benefit from brushing up on skills, too.
Check out these New Orleans destinations that offer swim lessons:
- Love Swimming
- Safe Swim
- YMCA of Greater New Orleans Louisiana
- NORD Commission
- British Swim School
- Goldfish Swim School
- Little Fins Swim Academy
DON’T SWIM SOLO
Swimming with a buddy is both more fun and more safe. The buddy system is a great way to spend time together in the water.
DESIGNATE A WATER WATCHER
Supervision is an important part of water safety. The water watcher is an adult who needs to stay distraction-free and keep a watchful eye on swimmers.
FOLLOW POSTED RULES
Look for posted signs regarding swimming conditions when visiting natural bodies of water. While it is preferable to swim at pools with life guards on duty, if unavailable, see posted pool rules for guidance.
CHOOSE A SMART SWIMSUIT
Brightly colored and neon swimsuits that contrast with water make swimmers easily visible. Avoid dark color swimsuits, which make it hard to spot children while swimming. UPF swim suits are also available which provide protection from the sun!
WEAR A LIFE JACKET
For children who are unable to swim, a Coast Guard certified life vest is the way to go.
GRAB THE SPF
Be sure to apply, and reapply sunscreen. Nothing dampers summer fun more than a painful sunburn.
TAKE BREAKS
Swimming is great exercise! Be sure to remind children to take breaks, grab a snack and, of course, stay hydrated.
LOOK BEFORE YOU LEAP
Cannonballs, can openers and diving are so much fun! Make sure to follow rules and also to literally look before you leap to make sure the area you are jumping into is deep enough and that no one is in the space.
Wishing you the safest (and most fun) summer yet!