We are so excited to partner with PAW Patrol and share the important message of water safety around the world. We promote the ABCs and 123s of Water Safety. The ABCs are geared towards adults and the 123s are geared to children. The Michael Phelps Foundation recommends removing any toys and floats from in and around the pool when not in use as these can attract young children to the pool. Children should be supervised by an adult at all times. Remember to practice safety when around water.
You can check out the Michael Phelps Foundation and Paw Patrol SafetyFirst Water Safety Tool Kit here.
ABCs of Water Safety for Adults
ADULT supervision:
Parents, teach your children to never get in the pool without an adult.
Put your cell phone away
Stay engaged with your child
Never be more than an arms-length away
If you are at a public pool, make sure there is a certified lifeguard on duty
Assign a water watcher: determine which adult in your party is in charge of exclusively watching the children in the water. Take turns ! But be aware that it is important to communicate just who the watcher is
BARRIERS:
All pools should have a barrier around them.
Make sure the door is closed leading into the pool. You do not want people coming in or out without you knowing it
If you have a backyard pool be sure to have a secure barrier and check to make sure your drains are compliant with VGB
Be aware if there are barriers set up at a public pool. Only swim where it is permitted
CLASSES:
Enroll your children in swim lessons. Look for lessons that teach the children to be comfortable and confident in the water. Swimmers need to understand and “feel” buoyancy and balance to make them safer in the water. This approach helps children to react to new situations that may occur in the water
Consider taking some swimming classes to brush up on your own swimming skills
Take a CPR class. CPR is essential in an emergency.
The 1, 2, 3s of Water Safety for Children
1. Never swim alone
Never swim alone
Be sure to stay with your parents or other adults.
Be sure to tell your adult that you are going in the water
Remind your adult to watch you
Learn what a lifeguard is and where they sit or stand
