Summer is around the corner—perfect for pool days, beach trips, and boating adventures. But having fun around water comes with responsibility. The Red Cross highlights six crucial safety measures that everyone should embrace:
1. Provide Constant Adult Supervision
Never assume lifeguards will notice every danger. If it’s your responsibility, stay alert and actively supervise—no phones, no distractions. Evening the best swim spots? Doesn’t matter—it’s your vigilance that counts redcross.org+7redcross.org+7redcross.org+7.
2. Learn to Swim
Swimming is a lifelong skill that significantly lowers drowning risks. Whether you’re seven or seventy, taking swim lessons helps build confidence and competence .
3. Swim Near Lifeguards
Whether at a public pool, beach, or waterpark, choose designated swim zones with certified lifeguards. These professionals are trained to spot danger quickly redcross.org+9redcross.org+9redcross.org+9.
4. Swim with a Buddy
Never go in the water alone—even experienced swimmers. The buddy system ensures someone’s always there to help in an emergency .
5. Always Wear a Properly-Fitted Coast Guard-Approved Life Jacket
Boating or swimming near deep or open water? A well-fitting life jacket is essential—especially for children and non-swimmers. Avoid using inflatable toys as stand-ins—they’re not reliable redcross.org+9redcross.org+9redcross.org+9.
6. Learn CPR
In emergencies, immediate action can save a life. Learning CPR equips you with the skills to respond before professional help arrives redcross.org.
Why These Tips Matter
-
Drownings are preventable – With these simple measures, you can dramatically reduce the risk for yourself and others.
-
Layered safety works – Combining supervision, swim skills, life jackets, and CPR creates a robust defense tree: from prevention to emergency response.
-
Up-to-date resources – Courses like Water Safety for Parents and Caregivers, along with the Red Cross Swim app, offer modern, accessible training .
What You Can Do Today
-
Register yourself or a family member for swim lessons—available for ages 6 months to adult redcross.org+4redcross.org+4redcross.org+4.
-
Download the Red Cross Swim app—great for tracking lessons and accessing safety tutorials.
-
Enroll in a CPR class—either in-person or online, to be ready when it matters.
-
Invest in the right safety gear, especially life jackets (Coast Guard-approved, appropriately sized).
Keep It Fun and Safe
Summer memories should be full of laughter, sunshine—and safety. Encourage loved ones to embrace these practices and lead by example. After all, staying water-smart means more carefree days and composure when it counts most.
Helpful Resources
-
Red Cross Swim app & Water‑Safety Courses: Interactive guides and caregiver tools redcross.org+9redcross.org+9redcross.org+9redcross.orgredcross.org+5redcross.org+5redcross.org+5
-
Red Cross Swim Lessons: Programs for kids and adults alike redcross.org
Let’s dive into summer prepared—safely, confidently, and responsibly.