As a longtime pioneer in swimming, the Y is committed to keeping individuals safe when in and around water. Swimming is the fourth most popular sports activity in the United States and a good way to get regular aerobic physical activity. Just two and a half hours per week or aerobic physical activity, such as swimming, bicycling, or running can decrease the risk of chronic illness. With any new activity, it is important to understand the risks associated and take appropriate precautions.
Here are a few water safety tips by the International Swimming Hall of Fame… the full list is available on the National Water Safety Month website.
- Teach children water safety and swimming skills as early as possible.
- Appoint a “designated watcher” to monitor children during social gatherings at or near pools.
- Post CPR instructions and learn the procedures.
- Keep a first aid kit at poolside.
- Maintain constant visual contact with children in a pool or pool area. If a child is missing, check the pool first; seconds count in preventing death or disability.
- Don’t use flotation devices as a substitute for supervision. Never allow a young child in a pool without an adult.
- Don’t think you’ll hear a child who’s in trouble in the water; child drowning is a silent death, with no splashing to alert anyone that the child is in trouble
Southern District YMCA 