Water Safety Tips

If you enjoy water activities, it is important to know water safety tips to keep you and your family safe. A drowning accident can happen instantly, without any warning. Most water-related accidents can be avoided by being safety conscious and by not taking any unnecessary risks while in and around the water.

• Never leave children unattended while they are in or around water.

• Always have another person with you while swimming; never swim by yourself. If you get into trouble in the water, your swimming buddy can help you or find help for you.

• Learn rescue techniques and CPR, as you may have to perform these skills to help someone.

• If you are an inexperienced swimmer or just learning to swim, stay close to the shore and do not go out into water that is over waist deep.

• Swim in areas where a lifeguard is on duty and stay within the designated swimming area.  

• Read and follow all posted rules at the swimming area or pool.

• Unskilled swimmers and children should wear a Coast Guard approved flotation device or life vest. Do not depend on arm floaties or inflatable toys for small children, as these are not approved safety devices.

• When entering the water, always go in feet first.

• Do not dive into water head first, unless the area is clearly marked for diving.

• If you are swimming in the ocean and get caught in a current, do not try to swim against it. Swim across the current, parallel to the shore to get out of it.

• Never drink alcohol when you are participating in water activities. Alcohol hinders your judgment, coordination and balance, which can influence your swimming skills.

• The most important water safety tip for all children and adults is to learn how to swim properly.