Here in the United States, we are embarking on the Labor Day weekend, the unofficial last gasp of summer. Traditionally, for many folks, Labor Day is a chance to spend a long weekend with family and loved ones. Many of us spend this downtime outside, either on or near water.
Here are some tips for keeping your family safe on, in and around bodies of water:
- Never leave children alone around with water whether it is in a pool, wading pool, drainage ditch, creek, pond or lake.
- Constantly watch children who are swimming or playing in water. They need an adult or certified lifeguard watching and within reach.
- Secure access to swimming pools. Use fences, self-closing and latching gates, and water surface alarms.
- Completely remove pool covers when the pool is in use.
- Store water toys away from the water when not in use so they don’t attract a small child.
- Don’t assume young children will use good judgment and caution around water.
- Be ready for emergencies. Keep emergency telephone numbers handy and learn CPR. F Find out if your child’s friends or neighbors have home pools.
For more information about water safety and children, visit Watch Kids Around Water
Have a safe, happy and healthy Labor Day holiday.
