How to Keep Kids Safe at the Pool This Summer
The summer holidays are here, and for many UK families, that means spending time at the local pool to cool off and have fun. Swimming pools and leisure centres can be great places for kids to enjoy exercise, develop swimming skills, and bond with friends. However, pools, especially those at hotels and on holiday also pose serious safety risks if proper precautions aren’t taken. Follow these tips to help ensure your kids stay safe and have a blast at the pool this summer while on holiday.
Supervise Constantly
The number one way to prevent pool accidents with kids is proper adult supervision. Children should be actively watched at all times when they are in or around water. Don’t just check in periodically – maintain constant visual contact. Designate an adult to be the “water watcher” during pool time on holiday. Take turns with other parents so you can all enjoy yourself while ensuring the kids are always monitored. Never leave young children alone or rely solely on older siblings to supervise younger ones. It only takes seconds for accidents to occur.
Learn CPR
In the event of an emergency, knowing CPR can be critical for preventing pool tragedies. The NHS and British Red Cross offer CPR training classes for parents and caregivers, teaching you the skills needed to perform CPR on infants, children, and adults. Local community centres may also provide affordable training. Make sure at least one supervising adult is CPR certified when kids are swimming on holiday. Update your training every two years to keep skills fresh. Knowing how to respond quickly in an emergency situation could save a child’s life.
Establish Pool Rules
Set clear rules that must be followed every time kids are around the pool while on holiday. Example rules include no running on the poolside, never swimming alone, and staying away from pool drains. Teach kids the rules before the first swimming day. Enforce them consistently – turning a blind eye could lead to dangerous habits. Go over the pool rules regularly throughout the summer holiday and before trips to public pools.
Use Swimming Aids
Keep U.K. approved swimming aids handy while on holiday. Require kids who can’t swim proficiently to wear swimming aids whenever they are in the water. Non-swimmers should also wear aids when on pool inflatables. Check the fit and condition regularly. Make sure they are the right type and size for your child’s height and weight. While swimming aids are not a complete substitute for supervision, they provide an added layer of safety for weaker swimmers. Teach kids how to put on and properly secure their own aids.
Apply Generous Sunscreen
Use a waterproof sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 to protect kids from burns. Choose the best non greasy sunscreen to make reapplication throughout the day easier. Apply the non greasy sunscreen 30 minutes before going outside and reapply every two hours while swimming. Pay special attention to the delicate skin on faces, ears, shoulders, and backs. Help younger kids thoroughly rub sunscreen into all exposed areas. Set a good example by wearing sunscreen yourself every time as well. Check out the non greasy sunscreen by LifeJacket if you aren’t sure what to buy.
Pool time on holiday is all about fun, but parents must also take proper precautions. Follow these tips for a summer full of safe, happy memories at the pool!
