Break out the goggles and swim trunks! Pool season is about to be upon us, and, just in time, is May’s National Water Safety Month. The awareness campaign, coordinated by the Association of Pool and Spa Professionals with support from NRPA, the American Red Cross and the World Waterpark Association, encourages parents, caregivers and kids to familiarize themselves with basic safety tips and best practices as we dive into pool season. Below, find some simple suggestions to help make this year’s trip to the community pool the safest and most fun it can be.
- Learn how to swim and make sure children know how to swim — your local park and recreation agency can help with lessons!
- Swim in designated areas supervised by lifeguards.
- Weak or inexperienced swimmers should wear U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets anytime they’re in or around water.
- Always swim with a buddy.
- Actively supervise children whenever around the water.
- Always stay within arm’s reach of young children and avoid distractions.
- Keep children away from pool drains, pipes and other openings to avoid entrapment.
- Be sure to have a first-aid kit, phone and emergency contact information with you when you go to the pool.
- Know where to find lifeguards and pool supervisors in the event of an emergency or if assistance is needed.
Learn more about Water Safety Month. To learn more about certification training, watch webinars and check out NRPA’s other aquatics-related offerings, browse aquatics resources.
Samantha Bartram, Executive Editor of Parks & Recreation magazine