Summer is almost here! I am so looking forward to warm weather, ice cream, BBQs, splash pads, park time, and swimming pools. Taking my 4 little kids is a big ordeal for me since they’re all still learning to swim. Being a former lifeguard, I know how easy it is for kids to find themselves in trouble in the water. So I make sure to always have my husband or another parent with me when we go to the pool.
May is National Water Safety Month! So I have some tips to help you, your kids, and those around you stay safe this summer when you’re near and in the pool. The ZAC Foundation has a list of ABCDs of water safety to help you remember what to do. I love when the list is something easy to remember like this.
ABCDs of Water Safety
A is for Adult
- Never let children be alone near a pool, ocean, lake, or river
B is for Barrier
- Have a fence that goes around your pool
C is for Classes
- Kids and adults should take safety classes
D is for Drains
- Teach all swimmers to stay away from all pool & spa drains
Swim Lessons
Have you signed your kids up for swim lessons yet? I just signed up my oldest two kids for swim lessons through the city pool. They are every week day for 4 weeks which is great so they have lots of instructional time in the pool. Some classes are 2 weeks and I know some moms sign their kids up for 2 sessions. Or you can always do private lessons if that’s more comfortable for your child.
Last year was the first year my girls did swim lessons and they couldn’t get enough of it! It was mostly to get the kids comfortable in the water. They learned to float and practiced dunking their heads underwater. They are so excited for swim lessons again this year!
Pool and Spa Drains
I had no idea there was a difference between safe pool drains and dangerous ones. Children can get pinned against unsafe drains and they have caused the death of some children. All pools in the US are required to have modern drains that can’t be completely blocked, but not every pool is up to date. And people with pools in their backyard may not be aware of these newer requirements.
Protect your family by asking the pool owners if they have an anti-entrapment drain cover. If they don’t, use a different pool! Watch this informative video from the Zac Foundation to know how to best protect your family from dangerous drains. Also, sign up for their newsletter for more water safety tips.
Giveaway
Summer is supposed to be fun, so once we know how to be safe, let’s have enjoy the water time with our family! And to celebrate summer and water safety, the ZAC Foundation has a fun giveaway for you! Each prize pack will include a bag, towel, book, water watcher card, t-shirt and wristband.
Giveaway Details: The giveaway runs from May 1 – May 26. Enter in the widget below. Winners will be randomly selected and notified by The ZAC Foundation by June 1.
I was selected for this opportunity as a member of CLEVER and the content and opinions expressed here are all my own.