By Robin M. O’Connor
School is ending, and water fun is just around the corner. Whether you jump in a lake, a river, a water park, a city pool, or a backyard sprinkler, water activities are part of summer. My childhood memories involve family beach outings on Lake Michigan. We ate peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, built sand castles, ran along the shore, and loved swimming and jumping the waves. My parents introduced me to everything water-related, including boating and fishing, besides swimming. My husband and I have taught our four children how to enjoy water activities safely, including swimming.
Many local park programs and high schools offer excellent, inexpensive “Learn How to Swim” programs. These swimming classes help you understand how to make safe choices while enjoying water activities, too.
Remember to start with my Aqua Five, which provides simple water safety tips for your family.
- Learn the basics of swimming and always swim with a buddy.
- Only swim in designated safe areas where there are lifeguards.
- Teach your children to ask for permission before entering the water. The added step ensures you are part of your safety “watch” plan.
- Never headfirst into any water – always use the Feet First Rule
- Don’t rely on inflatable toys or floating devices to keep your children safe. Please always wear a life jacket when required or needed, especially if your child is a beginner swimmer. Parents, this also includes you!
Of course, other safety measures exist, but the Aqua Five is a great place to start. If you, as an adult, do not know how to swim, learn the basics, too. Have fun, my friends, and stay water-safe this summer!
Stay tuned for next month’s chat on picnics. I will be including my favorite “Children’s Recipe.”