** This is a sponsored post by Goldfish Swim School **
Summer has just started and already a rash of children drowning across the nation are being reported. This topic hit especially close to home for us when a young family member of one of my son's classmates recently drowned. While having fun in and around the water is a really great way to enjoy the summer please remember to always take safety precautions to help ensure that an enjoyable time doesn't turn into a tragic moment. Chris McCuiston, co-founder of Goldfish Swim School, shared with A Geek Daddy water safety tips for when you are having some summer fun at the pool or beach:
Never leave a child unattended in or around water. Make sure there is a designated watcher on duty and that kids aren't swimming alone. Drowning can happen in the time it takes to send a text message or answer a phone call so don't let yourself be distracted when it is your responsibility to safeguard children in the water.
No matter what your age or skill level, always swim with at least one other person. If something happens you know there is someone else in proximity to help out or go for help.
Making sure kids know how to swim is the best way to stay safe in the water. Even for kids who "know" how to swim, lessons are still beneficial. One key lesson taught at Goldfish Swim School is if a child falls in the water, have them turn around to look where they fell in, keep their head above water and swim to the edge where they came in. Kids have a tendency to think the easiest way out is across the pool when they might be closer to the edge than they think.
Goldfish Swim School has programs for children as young as infants and toddlers that get them comfortable in the water and provide some basic safety skills for them and their parents. Swim lessons are also offered for children 4 to 12 years old that range from providing basic skills necessary for swimming to mastering a variety of strokes. Focused on providing lessons to children, Goldfish Swim School provides a highly personal experience for each student within a family-friendly facility.
Whether you are boating or swimming, make sure there are life preservers and U.S. Coast Guard-approved life vests available for all swimmers. Plus have a first aid kit handy as well.
While you shouldn't be on the phone while kids are swimming make sure you have one nearby so you can quickly call 911 if you need to.
Every second counts in an emergency! Knowing CPR and other first aid skills can be a real life saver in an emergency while waiting for medical professionals to arrive and provide assistance.
No matter if you are an adult or a child it is always important to be cautious and respect the water. Cramps, undertow, and other unexpected situations can put even the most skilled swimmer in jeopardy. As much fun as it is to play and swim in the water it is important to always keep in mind that a dangerous situation can arise at anytime.
Spending time in and around the water is a part of summer that many people love. Don't be afraid of water! Just make sure you're prepared to be safe by following these safety tips for summer fun and are always vigilant about being cautious around beaches and pools. For more safety tips and information about swimming lessons, please visit goldfishswimschool.com.